Colombia releases Venezuelan guards

Colombia has released four members of the Venezuelan national guard who were detained in that country.



Colombia said they were stopped on Friday by its navy in a boat on a river in the border province of Vichada.



President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela ruled out dialogue with the Colombian government saying he would not accept outside mediation in the dispute.



Earlier this month, President Chavez urged his armed forces to be prepared for possible war.



He said the increased US access to Colombian bases would allow Washington to spy on Venezuela and attack strategic targets.



Venezuela has accused the United States of planning attacks on its territory through a new military agreement with Colombia.