GEORGETOWN, Guyana, February 27, 2024 –Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US envoy to the United Nations, has reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, The Guyana Chronicle reported today.
The ambassador reiterated her nation’s position during a press conference at the US Embassy, on Monday.
Addressing concerns raised because of recent satellite imagery showing Venezuelan military assets moving along the border, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield emphasised that while Venezuela has made threats, there has been no military action.
Local journalists questioned the ambassador on if she believes that there is a “defence deficiency” in the region to deal with potential threats from Venezuela.
“The issue, whether there’s a deficiency in defence, I think is really hypothetical. There is, as far as we’ve all seen, there have been no actions taken on the military side by Venezuela,” Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield said.
Despite the lack of military action, the United States remains vigilant and committed to supporting Guyana.
The ambassador reiterated the US’ position that any changes to the long-standing border agreement, established in 1899, would need to go through legitimate international processes.
“We have been clear in our support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as it’s laid out in the agreement in 1899, and that no changes in that agreement can be made without it being done by competent entities, such as the ICJ [International Court of Justice],” Thomas-Greenfield asserted.
The ongoing controversy recently escalated with Venezuela’s increased military presence near the border. The ICJ has been tasked with resolving the issue, a process the United States deems the appropriate path forward.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield underscored the United States’ commitment to regional stability and international law, echoing the sentiments of the Guyana government and CARICOM members.
Recently, White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby said that the United States has been “monitoring closely,” the Venezuelan military movements along Guyana’s border.
He, however, noted that any military movements by Venezuela were considered minor.
“Our assessment is that whatever military movements there have been by Venezuela have been of a very — of a small nature and size and scale and scope. We see no indication that there’s about to be
hostilities, or that the Venezuelan military would be capable of conducting any significant military activities there,” Kirby said, underscoring the US’ stance on urging a peaceful resolution to the situation.
Venezuela, last year, had increased claims to two-thirds of Guyana’s Essequibo region.
This area is known for its wealth in oil, timber, and other natural resources, drawing attention and contention from both sides.
In response to Venezuela’s actions, Guyana has been bolstering its defence and diplomatic efforts with the help of international partners, including the United States, aiming to counter security threats while promoting regional stability.
Despite these preparations, Guyanese officials have reiterated their focus on defence rather than offence.
Following Venezuela’s reaction to the docking of the British offshore patrol vessel, HMS Trent, in Guyana’s waters, President Dr. Irfaan Ali clarified the nation’s defensive posture, indicating no intent to initiate conflict with Venezuela.
Amid these tensions, a significant diplomatic effort led by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines culminated in a peaceful ‘Argyle Declaration’ between Guyana and Venezuela.
This agreement, reached during a historic meeting on December 14, 2023, includes both countries committing to avoid the use of force, advocating for dialogue and co-operation to prevent tensions.
Guyana’s decision to take the matter to the ICJ in 2018 marked a pivotal move towards seeking a legal affirmation of the 1899 award’s legitimacy.
With the support of CARICOM, the Commonwealth, and international partners, Guyana stands firmly in its legal battle, which remains under the ICJ’s consideration.
Kirby’s remarks reflect a broader international call for diplomatic resolution and stability in the region, as he concluded: “And, obviously, we’re going to continue to watch it closely. You know, I would remind you that anything that we’re doing down in Guyana or in that area is done purely for defensive purposes.”
The United States, along with the global community, continues to advocate for peace and dialogue over conflict, monitoring the situation closely as developments unfold.
