Venezuela blames US for Georgia-Russia conflict

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is accusing the United States of masterminding the current conflict between Georgia and Russia. A statement from Chavez's government alleges the conflict was 'planned, prepared and ordered' by Washington in an 'incitement of violence.' It gives no evidence to support those claims. Venezuela is a close ally of Russia, which it says has acted to protect local residents from 'unacceptable acts of violence' perpetrated by Georgian troops. Venezuela's statement Thursday saluted steps toward peace in South Ossetia, saying Russia's stance has been in line with international accords. President Bush has demanded that Russia respect Georgian sovereignty and territorial integrity.