President Trump said on Thursday night there was a “tipping point” in Venezuela for military intervention.
In an interview with Fox News, the president said he was in constant touch with officials in the crisis-ridden country and repeated that all options remained on the table, including military action.
Trump would not be drawn on the circumstances in which he would act.
But said: “There is always a tipping point, but I would rather not do that.”
“I just want to help the people. The people are dying.”
When asked about “red lines,” he replied: “We have lots of options, and some of them are tough options.”
Senior military figures — including the acting secretary of defense — have canceled overseas travel as officials and officers continue planning for contingencies.
The country remains in chaos after disputed elections and years of economic decline.
President Nicolás Maduro is clinging to power despite the efforts of opposition leader Juan Guaidó, who a day earlier drew tens of thousands of Venezuelans on to the streets in protest.
