Peru recalls ambassador from Venezuela

LIMA, May 1 (UPI) -- Peru recalled its ambassador from Venezuela following accusations that Venezuela was interfering in Peru's presidential elections.

Peruvian officials decided to recall their ambassador over the weekend after Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez made derogatory comments about presidential hopeful Alan Garcia and openly backed left-wing candidate Ollanta Humala, who analysts predict will win this month's election.

The leftist Chavez has been accused by the United States and Colombia of trying to increase his political influence throughout the region and has been accused of supporting Colombia's leftist rebels, an accusation he denies.