As it struggles to emerge from the shadow of a decades-long armed conflict, the last thing Colombia needs is a fresh one breaking out on its doorstep. The dangerous escalation in tensions in neighboring Venezuela, however, has increased concerns over military confrontation, in which Colombia would be central to any campaign to oust Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro. The consequences would be catastrophic for both countries.

Since the crisis began with Juan Guaidó’s self-proclamation as president of Venezuela, the screws have kept tightening. In a January 28 press briefing, US neocon-in-chief John Bolton displayed a notepad bearing the words “5,000 troops to Colombia,” while Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that “all options are on the table.” Guaidó appears willing to submit Venezuela to war if it puts him in power. Paradoxically, it is those who profess Venezuela to be in the throes of humanitarian disaster who prescribe bombs as the remedy.

In recent days, Colombian social media has carried reports of troop movements on the Venezuelan and Panamanian borders and an increased US air force presence. Meanwhile, Maduro has resisted the US’s attempts to force “humanitarian aid” into Venezuela, understandably reluctant to allow unverified cargoes into the country.