EXCLUSIVE: Venezuela initiates operations with Special Forces along the border with Brazil and Guyana
By DefesaNet; Translated by @tupireport
In an escalation that heightens geopolitical tensions in the region, Venezuela is reported to have deployed four contingents of Special Operations in the locality of Paraitepuy, on the border with Guyana and Brazil. (see map)
Each of these contingents consists of approximately 48 to 50 highly trained operators, encompassing specialists from the Navy, Army, and Venezuelan Air Force of the National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB), totaling around 192 Special Operations operators. These specialized units demonstrate proficiency in various disciplines, including weaponry, communications, engineering, explosives, first aid, and intelligence.
In this tense context, it is relevant to note that the Venezuelan Special Operations contingents are operating in the Paraitepuy region without the use of regular uniforms, opting for civilian attire. This strategic choice aims to give them greater capability to infiltrate and operate discreetly, making identification difficult for the Guyana Defense Forces (GDF) or external observers.
Map 1 - Area of the Essequibo region presented in dashed lines by Google Maps. The red mark indicates the city of Paraitepuy.
The use of civilian attire by operators of Venezuelan Special Operations represents a tactical approach to minimize visibility and maximize the effectiveness of operations, confusing potential opposing forces and maintaining a less overt presence in the region. This practice is a strategy adopted by specialized units in various parts of the world to conduct secret and covert operations.
The source of this information is a military officer from the Guyana Defense Forces, who, for security reasons, requested anonymity when disclosing details about the movement at the border. According to the informant, the motivation behind sending these contingents is the growing concern about a possible incursion into the Essequibo territory, located in Guyana.
Additionally, there are reports that Venezuelan Special Operations are conducting intensive training with local indigenous people, of both sexes. This collaboration aims to reinforce support for special operations, with an emphasis on guerrilla warfare tactics, the use of advanced communication devices, and obtaining critical information. Indigenous individuals are being trained to perform essential roles, including monitoring the movements of Brazilian troops in the region and their means.
Map 2 - The locality of Paratepuy, near the traditional Mount Roraima, with the Indigenous Land Raposa Serra do Sol practically free after actions this year by FUNAI, IBAMA, and the Armed Forces.
The inclusion of members from indigenous communities in these training sessions highlights a more comprehensive strategy by Venezuela, seeking local partnerships to amplify its operational capabilities in support of unconventional warfare actions.
The Essequibo region has been historically contested between Venezuela and Guyana, both claiming sovereignty over the territory. Tensions have escalated in recent years, especially due to the vast reserves of oil and natural gas believed to be present in the area.
The Venezuelan military movement in Paraitepuy is interpreted as a direct response to this territorial dispute, representing a clear signal that the Caracas government is determined to strengthen its position on the Essequibo issue. Geopolitical experts express concerns about this military escalation, fearing a regional response that could impact stability in South America.
A delegation led by Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil delivered a speech with a threatening tone against Guyana during a meeting of South American authorities held at the Itamaraty Palace
The impassioned speeches by Gil and Deputy Defense Minister Félix Osorio in a closed meeting of foreign ministers and defense ministers were among the factors that heightened the concerns of the Lula government (PT) regarding the referendum called by Nicolás Maduro's regime for December 3 on the Essequibo, a territory claimed by Caracas.
Journalists from various media outlets heard reports from various authorities present, describing the moment as "tense," with the Venezuelan speeches being characterized as "threatening" and well beyond the usual tone for a diplomatic meeting. When it was Venezuela's turn to speak, Chavista authorities referred to the referendum, declaring that depending on the result, Caracas "might be forced by the people" to take certain actions.
According to the reports, the Chavistas also stated that Venezuela will not accept being stolen from or deceived, will defend itself against imperialist interests, and will review unjustly imposed agreements – expressions that are part of the regime's rhetoric on the territorial dispute over Essequibo.
‼️ Lula's interlocutors said that the Brazilian government is concerned about a "potentially conflictive" situation in a region close to Brazilian territory.
"Brazil made an exhortation, like all other countries, for understanding, diplomatic discussion, and peaceful resolution of disputes. I had the opportunity to say that Brazil, regarding the comments of the two countries [Venezuela and Guyana], encourages, like all other countries in the region, that controversies be resolved through negotiations, understanding, arbitration, resorting to international courts, such as the court in The Hague" said Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.
It is important to note that, as of now, there is no official confirmation from Venezuelan authorities regarding the deployment of these contingents. The government of Guyana is closely monitoring the situation and assessing the potential implications of this military movement.
Given this scenario, the international community is watching with caution and urges the involved countries to seek diplomatic solutions to resolve their differences, avoiding a military escalation that could have devastating consequences for the region.
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