The United States says it is closely monitoring Guyana’s case against Venezuela that remains before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and that it remains prepared to stand with Guyana against Venezuela’s “aggression.”
Speaking on the “SOURCES” programme on Sunday, US Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot said discussions with Venezuela on its claims to Guyana’s territory have not yet begun, but Washington plans to raise the issue—while remaining mindful of the ICJ process.
She said Washington is waiting for the ICJ to deliver its decision on the land borders, noting that once the issue is settled, it would “trigger” US assistance on maritime boundaries and Guyana’s EEZ.
“…we are not there yet… I think what is really important is that we wait on the ICJ to make a decision because then that puts to bed the issue of the land borders… and as soon as that happen, that will trigger our ability to assist on maritime border,” Theriot said.
The Ambassador added that a settled ICJ ruling would be reassuring “especially [for] Guyana.”
US ready to advance Guyana’s case; collaboration on drone tech
Theriot said the US is “absolutely ready and willing” to help advance Guyana’s case and defend the country against aggression, stressing continued vigilance even as tensions reportedly eased after a US operation earlier in the year.
“Obviously we stand by your side against threats from Venezuela… we continue to be vigilant and should you need our help we are here,” she said.
She also said the US has discussed collaboration on drone technology to support Guyana’s “domain awareness” for both maritime and air operations.
Defence cooperation and Shield of the Americas
The Ambassador further stated that the US will continue working with Guyana on defence matters and expand training to build national capabilities.
She said Guyana is part of the “Shield of the Americas” coalition, and that together they will work with the eleven signatories to counter “transnational crime,” including narcotics trafficking, while defending Guyana’s sovereignty.
The US has long supported Guyana in the dispute with Venezuela, and Theriot referenced earlier statements from US officials—including Secretary of State Marco Rubio—warning Venezuela that attempts to invade Guyana would be met with serious consequences.
The Ambassador also referenced a US operation earlier this year in Venezuela, which reportedly resulted in the capture of the country’s President and his wife and their transfer to the US to face narco-trafficking charges.
