incursion and Venezuela’s continued aggression towards Guyana’s Essequibo region. “We support Guyana 100 per cent against this aggression; it is unacceptable and we won’t allow Venezuela to threaten Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and so we are standing with many other international partners,” Theriot stated.  “We will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Guyana in supporting you and defending you.” The incursion on March 1, 2025 had drawn widespread condemnation from Guyana’s regional and international partners.

In response to escalating tensions, Guyana has filed a request for provisional measures at the International Court of Justice  following Venezuela’s announcement to hold elections on May 25, just one day before Guyana’s 59th Independence celebrations. The elections aim to appoint a governor and other officials for the Essequibo region, a move widely viewed as a direct challenge to Guyana’s territorial claims. (Jamaica Gleaner/CMC)