Venezuelan president Hugo Chávez says he fears a United States-led invasion launched from neighbouring Colombia.

In his weekly television address, the president called on both the Venezuelan army and population to start preparing for possible war. His comments come in response to the US and Colombia recently signing a treaty allowing the US use of seven Colombian military bases.

Mr Chávez warned US President Barack Obama not to get it into his head to use Colombia to launch an attack on Venezuela. He went on to say the US-Colombian accord was a danger to stability in the region.

The Venezuelan government broke off diplomatic relations with Colombia in July. Since then, tensions between the two countries have increased dramatically.

photo: Barack Obama and Hugo Chávez (EPA)