Caribbean must not be used as proxy for conflicts existing elsewhere

Dear Editor,

While Guyanese are focused on our domestic political situation, events on our western border should be cause for much concern.

The recent visit to Venezuela by two Russian nuclearcapable supersonic bombers and the announcement of plans to build a Russian military base on a Venezuelan island does not bode well for peace in the Caribbean region.

In addition, the recent announcement that Iran will be sending two warships to Venezuela further aggravates an already volatile situation.

There must be increased diplomatic efforts by all leaders of the Caribbean including Guyana to ease the tensions especially in light of the declining political situation in Venezuela where the Maduro regime may seek to increase opportunistic military actions.

With Guyana’s current uneasy political climate and oil production expected to commence next year, it is vitally important that we solicit the assistance of the international community and friendly countries to maintain peace and stability in the region.

The Caribbean region must not be used as a proxy for conflicts existing elsewhere or to extend the influence of other countries through military means.

Yours faithfully, Bishram Kuppen