Guyana says Venezuela deploys troops to disputed border

Source: AP

Guyana President David Granger said Tuesday that Venezuela has deployed troops to a contested border region in what he called a "dangerous" escalation of a long-running dispute between the South American nations.

The government of President Nicolas Maduro made "extraordinary military deployments" along what Guyana considers its western border, Granger told reporters.

He called the development a "hostile and aggressive" step in a border dispute that dates to the 19th century but has grown more heated over the past year following a major offshore oil discovery in waters claimed by both nations.

"We feel that Venezuela is treading a dangerous course at this point in time rather than seeking a peaceful resolution of the matter," Granger said. "Venezuela seems to be pursuing a very offensive and aggressive course."

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