Venezuela has turned out to be another battleground for geopolitical influence between the U.S. and Russia. Both sides have refused to budge. So what exactly is their position on the issue and how does it stall the resolution of the political crisis in Venezuela? 

The Trump administration has flirted with the idea of military intervention in Venezuela for months. Donald Trump rose to power questioning and criticizing Washington's global wars, but his government is considering putting American boots on the ground in Venezuela, though there's still confusion about the U.S. policy towards the country. Last week, the U.S. President hinted at a softer approach towards Venezuela after speaking to his Russian counterpart.

"He is not looking at all to get involved in Venezuela other than he'd like to see something positive happen for Venezuela. I feel the same way. We want to get some humanitarian aid, right now people are starving, they have no water, they have no food, " said Trump.

But just two days later, the U.S. Secretary of State spoke about the possibility of military action and how the U.S. is ready to press the military button.

"Make no mistake, we have a full range of options. Diplomatic options, political options, options with our allies, and then ultimately, a set of options that would involve use of U.S. military."

Russia, on the other hand, is opposing any U.S. military involvement. On Sunday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met his Venezuelan counterpart Jorge Arreaza and reiterated the country's stand. 

"We call on the Americans, and all those supporting them, to abandon their irresponsible plans and to act exclusively within the boundaries of international law."

Russia has over 17 billion U.S. dollars worth of investments in Venezuela, primarily in the country's oil industry. In March, around 100 Russian military experts landed in Venezuela. Both Russian and Venezuelan officials argued that they were there to discuss equipment maintenance, training and strategy. 

Russia has also rejected the US accusation that it persuaded Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro to abort his plans to flee to Cuba.

Inside Venezuela, experts argue that opposition leader Juan Guaido is fast losing support. Last week, Guaido once again failed to persuade military officials to join him against Maduro, and fewer people joined him in his rallies.

While speaking to BBC on Sunday, Guaido said he's considering asking the U.S. for military intervention. Analysts believe Guaido and the U.S. are running out of options, but they say military action may not be the right answer.