Rising Tensions: Venezuela's Threats Over Oil Dispute

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Venezuela against attacking Guyana or ExxonMobil, amid tensions over the disputed Esequibo area. This region is central to a territorial conflict being addressed at the International Court of Justice. Recently, a Venezuelan patrol was reported near a vessel in Guyanese waters.

Venezuela's looming threats over the contested Esequibo region could spell disaster, warns U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. During his visit to Guyana's capital, Rubio emphasized consequences if Venezuela attacked its neighbor or ExxonMobil.

The territorial disagreement between Venezuela and Guyana involves the 160,000-square-km Esequibo area, currently under the scrutiny of the International Court of Justice. This long-standing conflict has periodically flared, with accusations of encroachment from both sides.

Tensions recently escalated as Guyana accused a Venezuelan coast guard vessel of entering its waters and engaging with an ExxonMobil-operated oil block. The ongoing diplomatic challenge tests regional stability in South America.

(With inputs from agencies.)