Venezuela: Government referendum over disputed territory to take place Dec. 3

Venezuela will hold a referendum on Dec. 3 to decide whether to formally claim Essequibo, a region long disputed with Guyana, as a Venezuelan state. Increased security and heightened tensions are highly likely between the two countries in the coming days. In the lead-up to the vote, the Venezuelan government has significantly increased security nationwide, mobilizing over 350,000 troops to safeguard against possible sabotage. The Guyanese government has also indicated that it is willing to establish military bases in the contested area with the help of the U.S.

Authorities in both Guyana and Venezuela will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture in the lead to, during, and after the referendum. Security forces may close roads and establish checkpoints, prompting transport and business disruptions.