A senior U.S. State Department official has hinted at the possibility of an energy-related sanction on North Korea if the communist state follows through with its plan to launch a long-range rocket this week.

Washington-based Radio Free Asia quoted the official as saying the U.S. is reviewing what sanctions it might pursue, adding that North Korea has its sights set on the provision of energy as a precondition for reopening the six-party nuclear talks.

The official said Washington will issue a statement asking concerned countries to remain composed if the North launches its rocket.