Guyana in the news: ICJ hearings on the Essequibo dispute keep the border tensions alive with neighbors; a small nation navigating offshore oil wealth. Population: 790k; President (as of 2024) and key leaders reshaping policy.
The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General is investigating contracts linked to Kristi Noem, focusing on a $220 million ad campaign and possible misuse of funds. The inquiry faces obstacles, including alleged White House interference. Noem and associates deny wrongdoing. The investigation is ongoing as of today, March 27, 2026.
Kristi Noem visited Guyana with Corey Lewandowski, raising questions about her role and relationships. Despite her recent DHS ouster, she continues Latin America diplomacy as a special envoy, amid scrutiny over her travel, Lewandowski's presence, and a controversial US-funded ad campaign.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has released a report on the deaths of 31 sloths from Guyana and Peru during shipments linked to Sloth World in Orlando. The facility has renamed to Sloth World Inc. after a stop-work order and is under investigation for care and permit issues. The animals faced cold exposure and other health problems, raising concerns about oversight of tourist attractions centering on sloths.
The Essequibo region pin worn by Venezuela’s Rodríguez has intensified tensions with Guyana, drawing warnings from Caricom and highlighting the ongoing ICJ case. The gesture is seen as provoking Venezuela’s territorial claim, while Caribbean leaders discuss energy and trade ties amid regional friction.
The International Court of Justice is holding hearings over the Essequibo region, a border area disputed by Guyana and Venezuela. The 1899 arbitration largely favored Guyana, while Venezuela argues the 1966 Geneva agreement nullifies that ruling. Venezuela’s acting president is attending proceedings; a final judgment is expected months away.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has defended Venezuela’s sovereignty at The Hague while new U.S. commentary from Donald Trump has reignited talk of making Venezuela the 51st state. Venezuelan officials say Essequibo negotiations continue, and regional tensions are rising as OPEC-style energy interests intertwine with international diplomacy.
SoftBank has announced a €75bn plan to build AI data centres in northern France, and governments and companies across the world have reacted by prioritising domestic energy supplies. Energy ministers are negotiating cross‑border electricity links while countries from Guyana to Indonesia are accelerating local projects to reduce exposure to global price shocks.