Guyana’s government has granted permission for the U.S. military to conduct a demonstration over its capital involving two F/A-18F Super Hornet jets. This display of military cooperation highlights the strong relationship between the oil-exporting South American nation and the United States.
The exercise, which took place with only three hours' notice, caught many residents off guard. The flyover occurred amidst escalating tensions between Guyana and Venezuela over a disputed territory. President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela recently signed a law claiming the region, leading to heightened concerns.
The United States has shown support for Guyana in the territorial dispute, even assisting with surveillance flights last year when Venezuela threatened invasion. The recent visit of U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen Julie Nethercot to Guyana emphasized the commitment to deterring aggression and responding swiftly to crises.
Currently, Guyana is awaiting a decision from the World Court regarding Venezuela's claim to the disputed region. However, Venezuela has stated that it does not recognize the court's authority and will disregard any ruling it issues.