Conflict between Venezuela and Guyana

In recent weeks, tensions have surged between Venezuela and Guyana as both nations dispute ownership of a 160,000-square-km border territory, including offshore areas with significant oil and gas reserves. The long-running territorial conflict has been reignited, raising concerns about the stability of the region.

About the Dispute

• The dispute centres around a 160,000-square-km border territory around the Essequibo river, containing vast oil and gas reserves.
• Venezuela has recently reactivated its claim to the territory, spurred by the discovery of substantial oil and gas deposits off Guyana's coast.
• The 1899 decision establishing the border during British colonial rule has fuelled competing claims over ....