The United States is poised to launch a new phase of Venezuela-related operations in the coming days, four US officials told Reuters, as the Trump administration escalates pressure on President Nicolas Maduro's government.

Reports of looming action have proliferated in recent weeks as the US military deployed forces to the Caribbean amid worsening relations with Venezuela. Two of the US officials said covert operations would likely be the first part of the new action against Maduro.

Two US officials said that the options under consideration included attempting to overthrow Maduro, who has been in power since 2013. He has contended that Trump seeks to oust him and that Venezuelan citizens and the military will resist any such attempt.

A military buildup in the Caribbean has been underway

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