In a recent press conference, Venezuela’s Ambassador to Belize, Gerardo Argote, vehemently countered what he described as unwarranted provocations by the United States. Argote argued that the U.S. actions are not genuinely aimed at curbing drug trafficking but are instead a strategic move to control Venezuela’s vast natural resources, including the world’s largest oil reserves, gold, and gas. Citing the latest UNODC World Drug Report, he highlighted that only five percent of cocaine leaving South America via the Pacific passes through Venezuela, with most of it being intercepted. The ambassador called for an end to what he termed U.S. aggression and urged Belize to stand in solidarity with Venezuela, a partner since 1989. He emphasized the long-standing diplomatic and cooperative ties between the two nations, referencing the Petrocaribe program, which has provided significant support to Belize. Argote stressed the need for understanding and solidarity in addressing Venezuela’s current geopolitical challenges.