Chavez deploys troops as Colombia tensions rise

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said he deployed infantry troops and aircraft in case of a conflict with neighbouring Colombia.

Mr Chavez did not give details about the deployments, but said he was saddened to be spending hours “reviewing war plans” due to tensions with Colombia.

Mr Chavez cut off diplomatic relations with Colombia last week after outgoing President Alvaro Uribe’s government presented photos, videos and maps of what it said were Colombian rebel camps inside Venezuela.

Mr Chavez also said in telephone interview on state television that he wants peace and hopes it will be possible to talk with President-elect Juan Manuel Santos and ease tensions after he takes office on August 7.