US secretary of state Marco Rubio threatens Venezuela with 'aggressive action' if it attacks Guyana

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Venezuela against attempting to seize the disputed Essequibo region, emphasizing potential consequences. During his visit to Guyana, Rubio signed a security agreement. Venezuelan President Maduro rejected this warning. ExxonMobil's discovery of oil reserves in Guyana in 2015 has increased tensions. The US's interest in protecting the region was reinforced.