The Duran Podcast Regime change escalator w/ Robert Barnes (Live)
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Jan 13, 2026 Robert Barnes, a civil liberties attorney and geopolitical commentator, dives into the messy world of foreign policy. He discusses the deep-seated corruption within the DOJ and scrutinizes the motives behind regime change efforts in Venezuela, linking it to corporate influence. Barnes highlights the factional divide in D.C., debates the implications of U.S. troop movements in Iran, and reflects on America’s waning power on the global stage. Throughout, he tackles pressing economic concerns, including the growing disconnect between GDP figures and everyday life.
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Administration Split: Realists Vs. Deep State
- The Trump administration is deeply divided between a realist, voter-focused wing and a neocon/deep-state wing pushing regime change.
- Pam Bondi's alleged pay-for-play role is central to policy reversals and institutional protection of deep-state actors.
Money Motive Behind Venezuela Move
- Paul Singer reportedly influenced the Venezuela operation by promising oil profits and buying Venezuelan debt cheaply.
- That financial incentive likely drove regime-change pressure despite practical obstacles to extracting oil.
Avoid Ground Invasions; Use Sanctions Relief
- Avoid boots-on-the-ground interventions; Pentagon analyses repeatedly warned of chaos and civil war in Venezuela scenarios.
- Use disengagement and sanctions relief as pragmatic tools to stabilize and incentivize peaceful outcomes.
