Venezuelans Assert Sovereignty in Oil-Rich Guyana Territory

Venezuelans have approved a referendum called by President Nicolás Maduro to claim sovereignty over an oil-rich area of neighboring Guyana, which Venezuela argues was stolen when the border was drawn over a century ago. The referendum, which asked voters about establishing a state in the disputed territory and rejecting the jurisdiction of the United Nations' top court, has raised concerns in Guyana about potential annexation. The practical and legal implications of the referendum remain unclear, but the International Court of Justice has ordered Venezuela not to take any action that would alter Guyana's control over the area.