Venezuela denounces US fighter jets’ incursion into Guyana airspace | Global News

Venezuela Criticizes Guyana’s Decision to Allow US Fighter Jets to Overfly Capital

CARACAS, Venezuela – Tensions are rising between Venezuela and Guyana after the Guyanese government approved the overflight of two United States Navy fighter jets over the capital, Georgetown, and surrounding areas. The move, part of a defense cooperation agreement between Guyana and the US, has sparked criticism from Caracas.

In a statement, the Guyana government defended the flyover of the F/A18F Super Hornets, stating that it was part of the ongoing security cooperation program between the two countries. However, Venezuela’s Defence Minister, Vladimir Padrino, condemned the exercise as a provocation orchestrated by the US Southern Command and the Guyanese government.

The border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, currently before the International Court of Justice, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Venezuela claims ownership of the Essequibo region, which comprises a significant portion of Guyana’s territory.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil accused Guyana of violating the Argyle Declaration, a peace agreement reached between the two countries in 2023. The US Embassy in Guyana defended the military exercise, emphasizing the importance of security cooperation and bilateral defense partnerships.

As tensions escalate in the region, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The outcome of the border dispute and the ongoing military exercises could have far-reaching implications for peace and stability in South America.