On the brink of war? Venezuela President unveils 'new map'
Just two days after a contentious referendum concerning a disputed area of Guyana, the President of Venezuela has revealed a map that includes this territory within his nation's borders. He has also ordered copies of this new map to be distributed to schools and institutions nationwide. Media outlets from Latin America predict the possibility of an armed conflict if Venezuela attempts to claim this territory.
The tension between Venezuela and neighboring Guyana has been escalating at an alarming rate. The Venezuelan President is rapidly implementing the alleged wishes of the citizens who participated in the Sunday referendum. A staggering 95 percent of voters chose to annex the oil-rich region of Essequibo, which makes up more than half of Guyana's land area.
The Essequibo region covers nearly 61,766 square miles and comprises vast, untouched areas of Amazonian rainforest. Approximately 300,000 people reside here, accounting for nearly a third of Guyana’s population.
Maduro referred to the Sunday vote as a "historic event that galvanized the whole of Venezuela". He continued, "We must now reclaim what our liberators left us: Guyana Essequibo!"
'New Map of Venezuela'
Having carried out the Sunday referendum, by Tuesday Maduro put forward a proposal to the government at a meeting, which involved drafting a bill for presenting to the National Assembly. This bill aimed to establish the Venezuelan province of "Guyana Essequibo".
In addition, he stated that concessions for oil, gas, and mining operations should be issued forthwith.
During the government meeting, Maduro held up a 'new map of Venezuela', on which the disputed territory is shown within his nation's borders.
"I have immediately ordered that our new map of Venezuela, featuring our beloved Guayana Esequiba, be published and distributed to all schools, high schools, municipal councils, public institutions, universities, and homes throughout the country," said Nicolas Maduro on social media.
Guyana to appeal to UN security council
Maduro also stated that the authorities will carry out a population census within the disputed area and begin issuing identity documents to its residents.
As a countermeasure, Guyana announced that it would appeal to the UN Security Council for assistance if Venezuela takes any action following their referendum, AFP reports.
Potential for war?
If Venezuela attempts to seize Essequibo, Guyana not only faces considerable material losses but, according to initial comments from Latin American media, there is also the possibility of an armed conflict.
