Venezuela has significantly increased its military presence near the border with Guyana, despite previous claims of pursuing diplomatic resolutions to the territorial dispute. Satellite images obtained in January reveal extensive developments at Venezuela’s Anacoco Island military base, situated along the Cuyuni river bordering Guyana.
Notable developments include the construction of new infrastructure and the presence of armored vehicles on-site. Although the base’s airstrip remained unchanged, a helicopter was observed, along with improved access roads. Additionally, north of the base, significant alterations were observed at the Cuyuni River crossing, with a heavy river ferry visible and extensive deforestation.
In January, Venezuela showcased its military expansion through propaganda videos on social media, showcasing land-clearing operations and the movement of military assets. The Venezuelan Army attributed the base’s expansion to the collaborative efforts of the 11th Armoured Brigade and the 6th Venezuelan Army Corps Engineers, aiming to enhance response capabilities along the border with the state of Guayana Esequiba.
Reports on the escalation of Venezuelan operations along the disputed border initially surfaced from the Washington-based think tank, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Tensions escalated following a Venezuelan referendum, where voters supported the creation of a Venezuelan state within the disputed region, prompting concerns from Guyana about potential annexation and armed conflict.
Despite these tensions, Venezuela and Guyana reached an agreement on December 15 to de-escalate the situation and seek peaceful resolutions to their differences. Both countries pledged to refrain from threatening or using force against each other and to avoid escalating conflicts through words or actions.