US to launch new phase of Venezuela ops

Covert operations likely first step; flights cancelled

- AGENCIES

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

Reuters was not able to establish the exact timing or scope of the new operations, nor whether US. President Donald Trump had made a final decision to act. Reports of looming action have proliferated in recent weeks as the U.S. military has deployed forces to the Caribbean amid worsening relations with Venezuela.

Two of the U.S. officials said covert operations would likely be the first part of the new action against Maduro. The Pentagon referred questions to the White House. The CIA declined to comment.