The dispute over the oil-rich Essequibo region, currently being heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), reached a critical point when voters in Venezuela rejected the jurisdiction of the ICJ and supported the creation of a new Venezuelan state.

The US embassy in Georgetown issued a statement on Thursday, stating that the US Southern Command, responsible for military operations in Central and South America, would carry out flight operations with the Guyanese military. While the statement emphasized that these drills are part of routine engagement and operations to enhance the security partnership between the United States and Guyana, it has been widely interpreted as an effort to deter military intervention by Venezuela.

The announcement by the US was met with swift criticism from Caracas, with the Venezuelan government condemning it as a "provocation." However, the White House's national security spokesperson, John Kirby, reassured reporters later on Thursday that the United States firmly supports a peaceful resolution to the border dispute and stands by Guyana's sovereignty.

Following the rejection of the ICJ's jurisdiction, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has authorized oil exploration in the disputed Essequibo region, a move that has drawn strong objections from Guyana's President Irfaan Ali. President Ali stated that precautionary measures have been initiated to ensure peace and stability in the region and warned that if Venezuela continues its "reckless and adventurous" actions, the region will have to respond.

The growing tensions between the two neighboring countries have raised concerns across South America, as fears of a military confrontation intensify. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed the need for multilateral groups to step in and aid in finding a peaceful solution to the dispute, emphasizing that war is neither wanted nor needed in South America.

Reuters reported that Brazil's army intelligence has detected a build-up of Venezuelan forces near the border with Guyana, as confirmed by an unnamed senior military official. This development adds to the heightened apprehension surrounding the situation.

As the border tensions between Guyana and Venezuela continue to escalate, the joint flight drills involving the United States and Guyana serve as a demonstration of support for Guyana's sovereignty and act as a deterrent against military intervention. The hope is that through diplomatic efforts and international cooperation, a peaceful resolution can be reached to ensure stability in the region.