US President Donald Trump has said he is yet to decide on whether to attack Venezuela on land, a White House official and a senior US official has confirmed. He has hinted, however, that a window may be opening for diplomacy.

As American military forces amass in the region — including the most advanced US aircraft carrier and 15,000 personnel — Trump is hoping the pressure is enough to force Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down without taking direct military action, the US official said.

Trump received briefings on military options on three consecutive days last week. The options ranged in intensity, from strikes on military or government facilities to special operations raids. The option of doing nothing also still exists.

The president has, at times, voiced some reservations about taking direct military action inside Venezuela. He’s questioned the risks posed for US troops and asked about the likelihood of success.