The Venezuelan Foreign Minister, Ivan Gil, spoke at a recent UN General Assembly session to address long-standing tensions surrounding the Essequibo region, a portion of the Guyana border that has been disputed for nearly two centuries. He warned that the United States appears intent on creating a military footprint in Essequibo, a move he described as a deliberate step to escalate the conflict between Venezuela and Guyana and to gain influence over the region’s energy resources.
Gil asserted that the U.S. Southern Command is seeking to establish a base in the disputed area to project aggression against Venezuela and to seize control of energy wealth. He framed the situation as not merely a territorial disagreement but as an external push that could destabilize regional security. The minister stressed that Venezuela is prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity with all necessary means, including military options if required.
The Essequibo dispute, rooted in colonial-era boundaries, has defied quick resolution and continues to influence diplomacy in the region. Venezuela maintains that the United States has an interest in stabilizing the area around Essequibo to secure oil resources, a claim that underscores the broader geopolitical stakes involved. While Venezuela calls for peaceful dialogue and respect for international norms, it also keeps a firm stance on protecting its constitutional boundaries and national resources.
In parallel remarks, a former White House spokesperson suggested that sanctions on Venezuela could be eased if Caracas makes strides toward restoring democracy. The statement appears within a broader debate about how external powers may leverage economic measures to influence political reform in Venezuela. At the same time, there have been past accusations from Caracas that the United States has attempted to organize political change within Venezuela, a dynamic that continues to color bilateral relations.
Observers note that the Essequibo issue intertwines questions of international law, regional security, and energy geopolitics. The boundary dispute has implications for trade, investment, and the protection of natural resources, making a peaceful, rules-based approach essential for stability in the Caribbean and northern South American regions. As official positions remain entrenched on both sides, regional and international mediation efforts persist, aiming to prevent escalation while encouraging transparent dialogue and adherence to agreed legal standards.