Si vis pacem, para bellum

Here's a question for you. Who said in so many words the best way to avoid war is to be prepared for it...Ronald Reagan or Hugo Chavez? Would you believe both?

Reagan is credited with saying, "The defense policy of the United States is based on a simple premise: The United States does not start fights. We will never be an aggressor. We maintain our strength in order to deter and defend against aggression - to preserve freedom and peace."

Bloomberg reported in a November 8, 2009 news article, “Generals of the armed forces, the best way to avoid a war is to prepare for one,” Chavez said in comments on state television during his weekly “Alo Presidente” program.

Were they both right or both wrong? Reagan was not satisfied with the status quo U.S.-Soviet relationship of MAD and detente. He promoted a stronger defensive position that ultimately led to the demise of the Soviet Union and the fall of the Berlin Wall which happened twenty years ago today. Was there an ensuing peace with the Soviet Union? Do we still have it two decades later?

The U.S. agreement with Colombia, giving American troops access to seven Colombian bases is part of an effort to “strengthen and increase ties with countries in the region,” Robin Holzhauer, spokeswoman for the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, said by telephone. “We’ve done that with governments who want to have partnerships with us.” Colombia has said the agreement would help combat drug trafficking. Apparently, Chavez isn't buying it.

How much can nations increase their defenses without planting seeds of war in the minds of their neighbors? Will this U.S. agreement with Colombia start another mini-detente with Venezuela?