CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuela’s defense minister on Friday warned Colombia against provoking a conflict, after Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez severed ties with the neighboring country and placed his military on alert.
Defense Minister Carlos Mata read a statement on state television promising “a strong response” if foreign forces cross into Venezuelan territory.
Chavez announced he was breaking off diplomatic relations with Colombia on Thursday, accusing its U.S.-allied government of fabricating evidence showing Colombian rebel bases inside Venezuela.
Front Section, Pages 7 on 07/24/2010