The Pentagon is developing new military options for Venezuela, aimed at deterring "Russian, Cuban and Chinese influence " without any kinetic military actions, CNN reported quoting a defense official familiar with the effort.

Deterrence options are being developed after the White House meeting last week, where national security adviser John Bolton told acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan to develop ideas on the Venezuela crisis.

The official stressed that the initial work is being carried out by the Pentagon's Joint Staff which, together with the Southern Command, is planning future military operations.

And although Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently stated that “all options” remain on the table, several Pentagon officials continue to claim that the Department of Defense is not in the mood to use US military force against the Venezuelan regime.

Deterrence options may include US naval exercises in the near region and more active military engagement with neighboring countries. The idea is to challenge any idea of Russia, Cuba or China that they can have unchallenged access to the region.