VENEZUELA’S recent incursion into Guyana’s territorial waters is a grave breach of international law and a dangerous heightening of tensions within the region.
On March 1, 2025, a Venezuelan coast guard ship aggressively sailed into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), close to oil production equipment, and declared the area “disputed international waters”.

This provocation is not only detrimental to
Guyana’s sovereignty but to regional peace and norms of peaceful coexistence of states as well. The world has rightfully condemned Venezuela’s aggression. The Organisation of American States (OAS) was quick to condemn the invasion as a clear infringement of Guyana’s internationally-accepted maritime space.

The United States, via its Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, warned the Maduro regime of consequences if these provocations do not stop. These reactions show that the world will not just sit back and let Venezuela bully its neighbour, and interfere with lawful economic pursuits.

Regionally, CARICOM has continued to stand in strong support of Guyana, reiterating the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The regional solidarity in condemnation of Venezuela’s actions shows the Caribbean’s adherence to peace and respect for international law.

CARICOM’s call for Venezuela to recall its vessel with immediate effect and desist from further interference is an indication of the seriousness of the situation, and the necessity for a peaceful solution.

The Government of Guyana, under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali, has reacted to this development with great diplomatic maturity. By promptly notifying international partners, calling in the Venezuelan ambassador, and directing Guyana’s embassy in Caracas to make a formal protest, the government has done well in seeking to manage the situation diplomatically.

President Ali’s assurance that Guyana remains committed to peace, but is resolute on its territorial integrity is the correct blend of responsibility and assertiveness.
Venezuela must adhere to the current legal process at the International Court of Justice for the border controversy. Any effort to derail this process through threats of military intervention or unilateral decrees is unacceptable and outside of international practice.

The international community needs to continue to press Venezuela to engage in good faith in the ICJ process, and to desist from further belligerent acts. International law must be upheld. The world is watching, and Venezuela should know that its aggression will only result in further isolation and sanctions by the international community.