New Bolivian President Vows to Take Action Against US (missing missiles)

President Evo Morales, according to a news story in the Washington Times, leveled allegations at the United States that its advisors secretly removed Chinese-made anti-aircraft missiles from Bolivia. US military and law enforcement personnel serve as advisors to the Bolivians in their drug control activities and counterterrorism training.

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Bolivia's new President is leader of the Movement to Socialism (MAS). He was quoted in press reports this week as saying he would evict US military advisers from Bolivia and punish those responsible for the removal from the country this year of 28 HN-SA hand-held surface-to-air missiles (SAM).

The missiles are similar to the U.S. "Stinger" missiles used by Afghan insurgents with devastating effectiveness against low-flying Russian aircraft during the Russian invasion and occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s.

"I will press for a full investigation to establish responsibilities. We cannot tolerate international intervention," Mr. Morales was quoted as saying of the missile incident.

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In a statement to the Bolivian legislature last week, army chief General Marcelo Antezana admitted the missiles had been flown out of the country in June but he denied having taken any part in the operation.