Current Scenario:

An upsurge in tension between the two South American countries Venezuela and Guyana has been observed over the Esequibo region for a few weeks. Both countries claim the territory which is around 1,60,000 sq. km (62,000 sq. mile)

A Brief History Based on the Claims: Guyana–Venezuela territorial dispute-

This dispute (Guyana–Venezuela territorial dispute) started long ago over the region as Venezuela claims the land while Guyana rejects the claims. The land contributes 2/3rd part of Guyana’s territory and is located on the western region of the river “Essequibo”. In 1899, when Guyana was a British colony, the International Tribunal of the ruling power included the region within the territory of Guyana. Venezuela opposed this demarcation holding its claims on the Essequibo region as its territory. Still, the citizens of Venezuela believe the region should be annexed to their country.

Image credit: CNBC NEWS: The National

Recent Referendum:

The referendum conducted under the Venezuelan Presidentship Nicolás Maduro on Sunday on the occupancy of the 2/3rd land by Venezuela got huge support from its citizens.

A few Notable Points about Guyana:

Initially, Guyana was a colony of the Dutch from 1667-1815 then was under British rule from 1831 to 1966. Guyana finally got its independence on 26th May 1966 and formed Republic on 23rd February 1970.

The country has 2,15,000 sq km of land with a population of 7,95,408 estimated as of 2022 with 39.8% Indian origin, 29.3% African majorly, while there is in very less percentage. Christianity pre-donimates the region followed by Hinduism, Islam, and others. Irfaan Ali is the present president of the Country.

Theories behind the present disputes: Guyana–Venezuela territorial dispute-

There has been discovery of oil fields in the off-shore of Guyana which attracted the major countries and can be a game changer for the region. Guyana earns a revenue of $ 1 billion every year through crude oil exports. This amount is huge for a small country like Guyana. On the other hand, the sanctions on Venezuela made by the US resulted in the deterioration of the country’s economy despite having the largest oil reserves in the world.

Further, it is also alleged that because of the upcoming Presidential elections in 2024, Nicolás Maduro is now raising this controversial issue to gain popularity throughout the country.

Guyana’s Response:

Guyana is calm over the situation as both countries earlier said that there won’t be use of any force regarding the disputes between the two countries.

The President of Guyana believes it could be an existential threat to Guyana if the issue of annexation turns violent. A scenario similar to Russia-Crimea annexation may occur according to the officials of the Govt. of Guyana.

UK Response:

The UK is supposed to deploy its warship by the end of this month in favor of Guyana as the latter was once the colony of the former and presently the countries are in alliance.

Britain will deploy “HMS Trent” The Royal Navy patrol vessel.

Impact On Geopolitics:

As the US has removed several sanctions from Venezuela now countries like India have started to purchase oil from Venezuela. But if a crisis takes place shortly these trades will be affected which may hit the economy of many countries with another rise in the price of crude oil

Already the world is watching two major conflicts, Russia-Ukraine and the Israel-Gaza issue which has shown disastrous impact. Now another conflict will not be accepted by the world. Even the US and China share similar opinions and stand together on this issue.

Source and video credit: Study IQ.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the source news. Please read it and do not take any decision based on this. For the latest update please check live news. Sorry for the late update.

Guyana–Venezuela territorial dispute. Is Another War heading up? UK to deploy warship!!

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