In Bolivia, President Evo Morales has accused the United States of blackmail for withdrawing $300,000 dollars in grants. Morales said his country was told last week it is no longer considered a partner in the so-called war on terrorism.

• Bolivian President Evo Morales: “We are under obligation to inform ourselves on this form of blackmail, threats, and intimidation to our armed forces. Because we don’t accept vetoes or the change of a commander, blackmail comes from the U.S. armed forces.”

Morales won the presidency in December with more popular support than any Bolivian president in decades. He has drawn opposition from the Bush administration for his pledge to nationalize the country’s vast natural gas reserves and his opposition to the U.S.-funded eradication of the coca crop.