Venezuelans Vote on Disputed Territory with Guyana Amid Rising Tensions

Venezuelans are voting in a controversial referendum to determine the future of a disputed territory in neighboring Guyana, which Venezuela claims ownership of. The referendum asks Venezuelans whether they support establishing a state in the disputed territory, granting citizenship to residents, and rejecting the jurisdiction of the United Nations' top court in settling the disagreement. The international court has ordered Venezuela not to take any action that would alter Guyana's control over the territory, but did not specifically ban the referendum. The territory, known as Essequibo, is rich in minerals and borders Brazil, which has increased its military presence in the region.