Why Does Venezuela Claim Half Of Guyana?

Why Does Venezuela Claim Half Of Guyana?
The territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana over the Essequibo region has its roots in colonial history and has evolved into a complex geopolitical issue. This region, which comprises approximately 159,500 square kilometers-over two-thirds of Guyana’s total land area-was awarded to Britain as part of British Guiana by an 1899 arbitration ruling. However, Venezuela has consistently challenged this decision, claiming historical rights based on boundaries established during the Spanish colonial era. The origins of the dispute can be traced back to the early 19th century when Venezuela protested British territorial claims that extended into what it considered its territory. The Schomburgk Line, drawn by British surveyor Robert Schomburgk in the 1840s, further exacerbated tensions by asserting British control over areas that Venezuela believed were rightfully its own. The situation escalated when gold was discovered in the disputed territory, prompting both nations to intensify their claims. Despite the 1899 arbitration ruling, which recognized British claims, Venezuela's position shifted dramatically in 1962 when President Rómulo Betancourt declared the award null and void. This assertion revived Venezuela's claim over the Essequibo region, leading to a series of diplomatic negotiations and agreements, notably the Geneva Agreement of 1966. In recent years, the discovery of significant oil reserves in the contested area has intensified Venezuela's interest in the Essequibo region. In December 2023, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro threatened to annex the territory, further escalating military tensions along the border. This move followed a referendum in which Venezuelans overwhelmingly supported claims to Essequibo, signaling a nationalistic push for territorial expansion. The dispute is not only a matter of national pride for Venezuela but also reflects broader geopolitical dynamics. The involvement of external powers, particularly regarding oil exploration in the region, complicates matters further. For instance, ExxonMobil’s operations in offshore territories have drawn the attention of Venezuelan authorities, who view these activities as encroachments on their claimed territory.

[@JustASlavicMapper]

How does this have only 800 views??

[@tarunpandey8339]

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[@jayyy3456]

Essequibo is Guyana's.

[@ab9840]

Really belongs to Venezuela. The jingle even says so - th-cam.com/video/LVK_hY1M-6U/w-d-xo.html

[@maximilianogarciachirinos3663]

The Ezequibo belongs to Venezuela.

[@wuiok]

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