Venezuela Stakes Claim to Disputed Guyana Region, Raising Tensions
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Venezuela has claimed the Essequibo region of Guyana since the 19th century. President Maduro recently held a vote asserting Venezuela's claim and plans to annex the territory.
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The disputed region is resource-rich, with billions of barrels of oil discovered there in 2015. Analysts believe Maduro's actions are partly aimed at drumming up domestic support ahead of 2024 elections.
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Guyana has rejected Venezuela's claims and is looking to allies like the US and Brazil to deter potential Venezuelan aggression. There are fears Maduro could use the dispute as a pretext to cancel 2024 elections.
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While a full invasion is unlikely, analysts warn dictators don't always act rationally, raising the risks of a conflict. The Ukraine invasion serves as a warning.
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The dispute has raised tensions between the countries. Guyana is on high alert, warning it will protect its territorial integrity. Further escalation could spiral out of control.