Image Credit: GDF

The recent attacks on the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) along the Cuyuni River near the Venezuelan border have sharply escalated tensions in the long-standing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela. Over a 24-hour period, the GDF reported three separate incidents where armed men in civilian clothing fired upon Guyanese troops conducting routine riverine patrols between the Eteringbang and Makapa areas on the Guyanese side of the disputed Essequibo region.

Despite the aggressions, no Guyanese soldiers were injured, and the GDF responded with measured force each time, maintaining their commitment to protecting Guyana’s territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens. The Defence Force has vowed to continue regular patrols along the Cuyuni River and to take all necessary measures to safeguard the nation’s borders and maintain peace and security.

This surge in violence follows a similar ambush in February 2025, when six GDF soldiers were wounded during an exchange of gunfire with armed men suspected to be linked to Venezuelan “syndicato” groups. That incident occurred while the soldiers were on a resupply mission between Eteringbang and Makapa. Venezuela denied responsibility and accused Guyana of illegally entering the disputed Essequibo territory, which Guyana administers based on a 1899 Arbitral Tribunal ruling.

The Essequibo region, rich in oil reserves discovered by ExxonMobil, covers about two-thirds of Guyana’s land and is claimed by Venezuela, which argues the Essequibo River marks a natural border recognized since 1777. The dispute has intensified recently, especially with Venezuela’s plans to hold elections in the region on May 25, despite an International Court of Justice order prohibiting unilateral actions there. Venezuela has even threatened to annex the area as its 24th state, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.

Guyana has condemned the attacks diplomatically and called on Venezuelan authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice. Meanwhile, the GDF remains resolute in its mission, emphasizing that the local border communities on both sides are peaceful and that the current security measures are necessary due to the heightened threat environment.

More details to follow.

Published by truthisacommodity

Residing on the small island of Malta, I have developed a keen interest in foreign politics and science and in bringing truth to my audience by providing daily news! Email: info@whatnownews24.com View all posts by truthisacommodity