Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, has awarded honors to the legal team that represented the country before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the disputed Essequibo region. The ceremony underscored Venezuela’s continued rejection of the ICJ’s jurisdiction in the matter. Rodríguez stated Venezuela will not recognize any decision made by the court, asserting it lacks the competence and jurisdiction to rule on the controversy. The Essequibo region, rich in natural resources, is claimed by both Venezuela and Guyana. This action signals Venezuela’s firm stance in the ongoing territorial dispute. The ICJ is currently hearing arguments from both sides concerning the validity of a 1966 agreement related to the region’s ownership. This latest move reinforces Venezuela’s determination to pursue its claim through alternative means.