The US is considering overthrowing Maduro. Trump's team is reportedly preparing to intervene in Venezuela

The United States is preparing for a new phase of operations in Venezuela, with covert interventions aimed at stepping up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro as a first step.

According to four US officials who gave information to Reuters on condition of anonymity, an attempt to overthrow him is not ruled out.

The Trump administration claims that Maduro is behind drug smuggling into the US, which the Venezuelan president vehemently denies. At the same time, the US is planning to designate the Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist organisation, which would open up legal space for further intervention.

There has been a military buildup in the Caribbean for months, including the presence of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford and other ships.

U.S. forces have so far launched more than 20 attacks on alleged drug ships, killing more than 80 people - extrajudicial killings, according to human rights organizations.

Caracas is preparing for a possible invasion, citing guerrilla defences. Although diplomatic talks are under way, the outcome remains uncertain.

(reuters, swag)