Guyanese military helicopter with five senior officials onboard disappears amid rising tensions with Venezuela

In a recent development, a military helicopter carrying five high-ranking Guyanese officials and two crew members disappeared in stormy weather near the contested border with Venezuela. President Irfaan Ali has sought the support of the United States, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations to ensure the safety of the officials against what he referred to as the ‘outlaw nation.’ Venezuela conducted a referendum, asking its citizens about reviving historic claims to the mineral and oil-rich Essequibo region of Guyana. President Nicolas Maduro asserted Venezuela’s ownership of the area, revealing a new map that includes two-thirds of Guyanese territory annexed to Caracas. Amidst these tensions, Guyana dispatched a new Bell 412 EPI aircraft carrying the officials to the border region. Unfortunately, the helicopter disappeared after refueling in the Olive Creek settlement in western Guyana. Guyana’s Army Chief, Brigadier General Omar Khan, emphasised that there was no indication of Venezuelan involvement in the helicopter’s disappearance. The U.S. government has pledged assistance in the search efforts, set to resume on Thursday. President Irfaan Ali, addressing the nation, condemned Maduro’s threat to annex a significant portion of Guyana as a blatant violation of international law. Ali highlighted the importance of safeguarding Guyana’s territorial integrity and expressed concern over Venezuela’s disregard for the International Court of Justice’s warning. Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s Essequibo region dates back over a century, and recent oil discoveries have intensified their interest. Despite the ICJ’s warning, Venezuela’s actions have raised tensions in the region. President Ali accused Maduro of defying international law and declared Venezuela an ‘outlaw nation.’ He urged Maduro to reconsider his steps and adhere to international law, emphasizing Guyana’s commitment to maintaining regional peace. In response, Venezuela condemned Ali’s statement, accusing Guyana of irresponsible conduct and giving the U.S. Southern Command permission to enter the Essequibo region. While Venezuela’s military strength surpasses Guyana’s, military analysts note Venezuela’s weakened capacity due to years of mismanagement. The potential logistical challenges of an invasion, including dense jungle terrain, could lead to a strong international response, with Brazil likely playing a crucial role given its larger and more professional military.