Guyana Condemns Venezuelan Naval Incursion into Its Waters

Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali has strongly condemned an incursion by a Venezuelan naval vessel into Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) early Saturday morning, calling it a “matter of grave concern.”

According to President Ali, a Venezuelan armed patrol ship entered Guyanese waters at approximately 7:00 AM on March 1, 2025. The vessel approached multiple assets, including the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel Prosperity. Identified by its visible markings, the patrol ship was confirmed to be a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel, designated BF Will Carry PO-11 IMO 4695542.

During the incident, the Venezuelan vessel transmitted a radio message claiming that Prosperity was operating in “disputed international waters” before continuing its course southwest toward other FPSOs. However, President Ali firmly stated that Guyana’s maritime boundaries are recognised under international law, and the government is treating the situation with the seriousness it demands.

Guyana has already summoned the Venezuelan ambassador to register its strong protest and has instructed its embassy in Caracas to lodge a formal complaint with the Venezuelan government. President Ali also confirmed that Guyana has engaged its international allies, including the United Kingdom, France, the United States, CARICOM, and Brazil, all of whom have responded positively. Additionally, regional partners, including the chair of CARICOM and Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, are actively engaging with Venezuela on the matter.

The president has briefed the opposition leader and will meet with him later today as more details emerge. Meanwhile, Guyana’s Defence Board and military leadership have convened emergency meetings, and air and naval assets have been deployed to secure the country’s EEZ. The government also intends to formally notify the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations Secretary-General, the Commonwealth, and the Organisation of American States (OAS) of the incident.

President Ali made it clear that threats to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity will not be tolerated. He assured the Guyanese people that the government is acting with diligence and will provide further updates as necessary.