Key Takeaways
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested on Fox News that oil prices could fall significantly “if something happens down in Venezuela.”
- The comment is being widely interpreted as a hint toward the Trump administration’s potential plans for intervention or regime change in the South American nation.
- Experts warn that any U.S. military action could destabilize the region, potentially leading to a crisis comparable to the aftermath of the U.S. invasion of Iraq.
- Bessent’s remark places a potential economic benefit—lower fuel costs—alongside a significant foreign policy move.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has ignited speculation about the Trump administration’s plans for Venezuela after linking a potential drop in oil prices to an unspecified event in the country. The comment, made during a Thursday interview on Fox News, is being viewed as a revealing glimpse into the administration’s foreign policy objectives.
A Revealing Remark
While speaking with host Laura Ingraham about the U.S. economy, Bessent expressed confidence in job growth and economic momentum. He then pivoted to energy markets, stating, “I think there’s a very good chance that if something happens with Russia, Ukraine, if something happens down in Venezuela, that we could really see oil prices go down even more.”
The casual mention of Venezuela in the context of a major geopolitical event has raised alarms, suggesting that a significant policy action may be under consideration.
Bessent: “If something happens down in Venezuela, we could really see oil prices go down even more.” pic.twitter.com/LBjQhPjWph
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) November 21, 2025
‘Regime Change’ Speculation Grows
Bessent’s ambiguous “if something happens” is being interpreted by many as a euphemism for U.S.-backed regime change. The Trump administration has previously taken a hardline stance against the Venezuelan government, which it has characterized as a major drug-trafficking hub to justify naval operations in the area.
This new comment from a top cabinet official appears to connect the administration’s geopolitical goals with a tangible benefit for American consumers: lower prices at the pump. By framing potential action in economic terms, the administration may be testing public sentiment for a more aggressive foreign policy.
Experts Warn of Anarchy and Destabilization
While the prospect of lower oil prices may be appealing, experts are cautioning against the severe risks of military intervention. Phil Gunson, a senior analyst with the International Crisis Group based in Caracas, warned that such a move could be catastrophic.
“U.S. military action could trigger a crisis on the same order as happened in Iraq after the U.S. regime change effort there,” Gunson told The New Republic. He explained that a forced removal of the government could unleash chaos among multiple armed factions within the country.
“If the U.S. does decapitate the government, the multiple armed actors could bring about a degree of anarchy,” he added. “It’s not fanciful to imagine that there could be lynchings. There could be bombings or selective assassinations.” This stark warning highlights the potential for a humanitarian and security crisis should the administration’s implicit plans come to fruition.
Image Referance: https://newrepublic.com/post/203514/bessent-oil-prices-will-drop-if-something-happens-venezuela