South American dispute worsens as Venezuela and Ecuador send troops to Colombian border

Venezuela's military went on alert 'on land, in the air and at sea' and will support Ecuador 'to the last,' Chavez said. Washington, which backs Uribe's fight against the rebels with its largest military aid outside the Middle East, said it was monitoring developments after Chavez's 'odd reaction.' France, which has worked to free rebel-held hostages, called for restraint on all sides.