According to The Wall Street Journal, U. S. President Donald Trump has recently voiced doubts to his closest advisers about the feasibility of a military operation against Venezuela. The American leader reportedly fears that even large-scale strikes would be unlikely to force Nicolás Maduro from power.

Unnamed officials told the newspaper that the White House has yet to define a clear objective for potential military intervention. Despite his reservations, Trump continues to discuss various military options against Caracas with his national security team. Some experts believe that a direct strike on Venezuela remains on the table.

At present, sources say Trump is content with the gradual buildup of U.S. forces in the region and ongoing operations targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean and the Pacific.

According to WSJ, Trump has been presented with three possible strategies to increase pressure on Maduro. The first involves tightening economic sanctions and imposing tariffs on nations that import Venezuelan oil. The second calls for expanded support for the opposition, combined with the deployment of U.S. military equipment in neighboring countries. The third — and most severe — option envisions direct strikes or «covert operations» targeting Venezuela’s government and military sites.

Sources also indicated that the U. S. Department of Justice is preparing a legal framework that would allow Trump to authorize military action against Maduro. The White House, meanwhile, reportedly maintains regular contact with representatives of the Venezuelan opposition.