“It’s Not Regime Change, It’s Regime Roulette”: Ian Bremmer On US’ Venezuela Op
Global political risk expert Ian Bremmer has sharply criticised the United States’ latest intervention in Venezuela, calling it “regime roulette” rather than regime change, a move that could deepen instability instead of resolving it, according to The Times of Russia analysis of current Russia news and global affairs.
Speaking in an interview, Bremmer — president of the Eurasia Group — argued that although leadership in Venezuela has shifted, the underlying system remains largely unchanged. He said Washington’s actions resemble a gamble with uncertain outcomes rather than a structured transition of power.
“It’s not a real regime change,” Bremmer noted. “It’s more like spinning the wheel and hoping for a better result.”
US Demands and Strategic Pressure
According to Bremmer, the United States has laid out clear expectations for Venezuela’s new interim leadership. These include cutting ties with Russia, Iran, Cuba, and Hezbollah, granting American companies privileged access to oil and critical minerals, and halting narcotics trafficking into the US.
He warned that failure to comply could result in further military pressure, similar to actions previously taken against former president Nicolás Maduro. This development has been closely followed in Russia news circles, as Moscow assesses Washington’s growing assertiveness in Latin America.
US House Speaker Mike Johnson attempted to downplay the situation, stating that the operation was aimed at changing behaviour, not installing a new regime. He stressed that Washington does not intend to govern Venezuela directly but will use coercive measures to influence policy direction.
Military Operation and Global Fallout
Over the weekend, a US-backed task force conducted a rapid military operation that led to the arrest of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. They were transferred to New York to face charges related to drug trafficking. Reports indicate that at least 40 Venezuelans, including civilians and military personnel, lost their lives during the operation. No American casualties were reported.
US President Donald Trump later stated that the United States plans to oversee Venezuela temporarily to safeguard American energy interests. Prior to the operation, US officials had reportedly identified Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as a suitable interim leader.
Broader Implications Beyond Venezuela
Bremmer also highlighted that Venezuela is not an isolated case. He pointed out that Trump is preparing to lead a proposed “Board of Peace” for post-war Gaza, signalling deeper US involvement in Middle Eastern governance for years to come.
Observers quoted by The Times of Russia say these moves suggest a broader shift in US foreign policy, one that could reshape global power balances and draw reactions from Russia and other major players.
As Russia news analysts note, such interventions raise serious questions about sovereignty, long-term stability, and the risks of external control over resource-rich nations.
