Tensions escalate between Colombia and Venezuela

Colombia has said it is preparing to defend against a possible foreign military attack amid growing tensions with neighboring Venezuela. Meanwhile, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said on Sunday that Colombia will regret any actions that hurt his country.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez warned Colombia that his country will not sit idly by if Colombia launches an attack.

Hugo Chavez said, "They are preparing an attack. Believe me, gentlemen of the Colombian bourgeoisie, if you attack Venezuela, you will regret it. We are not disarmed, nor are we sitting here with our arms crossed. The last thing I would ever want in my life -- my God, deliver me God from a war with Colombia! -- but that does not depend on us. There are units moving to the border."

The Venezuelan leader has said that the US military, is preparing for a possible offensive, and has sent intelligence agents, warships and spy planes to Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire, which are self-governing Dutch islands.