Will Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro invade Guyana?

Venezuelan President Maduro allows oil exploration in the contested Essequibo region, following a referendum supporting Venezuela’s claim. Maduro directs state-owned companies to exploit oil, gas, and mineral resources in Guyana’s Essequibo region. Guyana denounces Venezuela’s actions and the referendum as a pretext for annexation. The International Court of Justice orders Venezuela not to take any action that might affect the disputed territory’s status quo. Colombia’s shift to the left and Brazil’s uncertain ability to deter Venezuelan aggression may influence Maduro’s decision-making.