Venezuela Holds Referendum on Disputed Essequibo Region

Venezuela held a referendum on Sunday concerning the Essequibo region, a large territory west of the Essequibo River that is currently administered and controlled by Guyana. President Nicols Maduro's government organized the vote to gauge public sentiment on asserting Venezuela's claim to the region. The referendum included questions about creating a new Venezuelan state in Essequibo and granting citizenship to its residents.

Guyana has strongly protested the referendum, viewing it as a threat to its territorial integrity. The Guyanese government has sought international support, arguing that the dispute should be resolved peacefully through the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ has urged Venezuela to refrain from actions that could escalate the conflict.

The Essequibo region is rich in natural resources, including oil, gold, and timber. This wealth has fueled the long-standing border dispute between Venezuela and Guyana, dating back to the 19th century. The referendum's outcome and Venezuela's subsequent actions will likely determine the future of the region and the relationship between the two countries. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the dispute.