Venezuela's armed forces said Tuesday they were on "alert" for border violations following threats by US President Donald Trump who urged them to back opposition leader Juan Guaido. "The armed forces will remain deployed and on alert along the borders... to avoid any violations of territorial integrity," said Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, reading out a statement in a public appearance alongside top commanders.

"We reiterate unrestrictedly our obedience, subordination and loyalty" to President Nicolas Maduro, he added. Maduro faces calls to quit as his country struggles with shortages of food and medicine. The military high command has so far maintained its public backing for Maduro - seen as key to keeping him in power.

Guaido, leader of the Venezuelan legislature, has declared himself acting president and is appealing to military leaders to switch allegiance to him.

He is backed by the United States and some 50 other countries. The United States has sent food and medical aid for Venezuela but the military has so far refused to let it enter the country.

Copyright Agence France-Presse, 2019