Western Hemisphere
The Simón Bolívar and Francisco de Paula Santander international bridge at the Venezuela-Colombia border remains closed since Monday. The area has been totally occupied by Venezuelan National Guard and Army troops.

Classes have been suspended for security reasons in the border area until further notice, especially in Pedro María Ureña, Bolívar and Junín municipalities.

At least 85 percent of stores have been closed, according to reports.

Although the National Guard has not imposed a curfew, the civil population is taking shelter at home. The situation remains tense but calm in the area. The road between Venezuela and Colombia is clear.

Tensions in the border area come after the murder of two National Guard troops in the zone. According to unofficial reports, a suspect has been arrested.