Guyana Formally Protests Delcy Rodríguez Essequibo Brooch During Caribbean Visits

Guyana's President Irfaan Ali formally protested Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodríguez for wearing a gold brooch depicting Venezuela's map inclusive of the Essequibo region — the 160,000 km² oil-rich territory administered by Guyana but claimed by Venezuela — during official visits to Grenada (April 9) and Barbados (April 27–28). Ali denounced what he called the 'ostentatious exhibition of symbols' asserting territorial claims over sovereign Guyanese territory. The diplomatic incident came just days before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was set to begin oral hearings on the Guyana–Venezuela border dispute on May 4. The Essequibo is central to Venezuela's national identity and its claim is backed by all Venezuelan political factions including the transitional government.