Venezuela's Escalating Border Dispute: Military Mobilization and Annexation Threats

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has announced the annexation of the disputed territory of Essequibo, following a controversial referendum that registered low participation. Maduro presented a new official map of Venezuela incorporating Essequibo and appointed a provisional authority to oversee the territory. He also instructed the state oil company to map out exploration and exploitation of resources in the area and ordered the National Assembly to draft a law prohibiting oil concessions granted by Guyana. The dispute dates back to 1777, and Guyana's President Mohamed Irfaan Ali has expressed concern over Venezuela's actions, calling for a peaceful resolution through the International Court of Justice. Brazil has also increased its military presence on the border.