…declares zero tolerance for attacks on citizens and military; vows to strengthen defence, democracy & regional unity
President Dr Irfaan Ali has sent a firm and unambiguous message to all who threaten Guyana’s sovereignty: “We will protect every inch of Guyana’s territory with vigilance and resolve.”
The Commander-in-Chief of Guyana’s Armed Forces delivered the declaration Wednesday, during the commissioning parade of the Guyana Defence Force’s Standard Officers Course #56, where he reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to defend the nation’s sovereignty, uphold democracy, and safeguard peace in the region.
Standing before the newly-commissioned officers, President Ali reminded the country that its soldiers are not only defenders of borders but also guardians of democracy, stability, and national dignity.
“Our men and women in uniform stand ready to safeguard our territorial integrity and sovereignty, ensuring that our land, rivers, forests, and resources – from gold to diamonds – remain secure from those who might seek to exploit or plunder them,” the President asserted.
“We are not building a military for aggression. We are building a military for assurance – a force that defends, responds, and contributes to national progress.”
President condemns Venezuela’s actions
In his most direct statement yet on recent Venezuelan incursions, President Ali condemned the attacks on Guyanese citizens and soldiers in the Cuyuni region, making it clear that Guyana will not bow to provocation or intimidation.
“We condemn the attacks against our citizens and our military using the Cuyuni. We will not tolerate it,” he declared firmly.
“Our territorial space will remain a space we will defend – with our partners, with our allies, and with all who stand on the side of freedom, sovereignty, democracy, and the rule of law.”
Tensions between Venezuela and Guyana escalated throughout 2025 due to multiple armed attacks in the Cuyuni region. The incidents involved Venezuelan-based armed men firing upon Guyanese military patrols and personnel, including those escorting election officials.
In February, armed Venezuela men attacked a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) patrol boat on the Cuyuni River, injuring six soldiers. The GDF returned fire, and the attackers retreated. In May, armed men from the Venezuelan shore launched three separate attacks on GDF troops conducting riverine patrols; no Guyanese soldiers were injured during these attacks.
Then in August, a Guyanese Joint Services patrol escorting election officials and ballot boxes came under fire from the Venezuelan side of the Upper Cuyuni River. No one was harmed, and the team successfully completed its mission.
President Ali emphasised that while Guyana maintains respect for the Venezuelan people and continues to welcome those seeking refuge and opportunity, the territorial controversy must be settled peacefully through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – not through aggression or coercion.
“Guyana stands firmly on the side of justice and legality,” he said. “We reject all forms of aggression and any attempt to impose solutions through force. Peace, dialogue, and international law must define the way nations interact in our hemisphere.”
Building a modern, smart, and resilient defence force
The Guyanese leader further outlined his Government’s ongoing investments in modernising the GDF, ensuring that it remains not only a shield against threats but also a partner in national development.
He noted that the GDF is now the best equipped in its history but emphasised that true military strength is not measured in hardware alone.
“We are building modern hangars. We are deploying aerial platforms. We are integrating drones for surveillance. We are strengthening training and improving infrastructure,” he explained. “The vision is clear – to build, deploy, and operate a modern, smart, and resilient Force in support of national defence and development.”
“The real strength of this force lies in its people – in the discipline of its troops, in the integrity of its officers, and in their commitment to serve with honour and humility,” he said.
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