The Bulwark Podcast Bill Kristol: A Stupid and Insane Foreign Intervention
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Jan 5, 2026 
Bill Kristol, a conservative political analyst and founder of The Bulwark, joins Tim Miller for a lively discussion on U.S. intervention in Venezuela. They argue that the operation is more about Trump's vanity than national security, likely leading to worse outcomes for ordinary Venezuelans. Kristol raises concerns over disinformation in media, including fake images of celebrations tied to U.S. actions. They also analyze the implications for regional stability and warn against interventionist policies without proper planning and alliances.
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Maduro's Removal Lacks A Coherent Plan
- Maduro is awful and Biden-era U.S. intervention won't help Venezuelans' lives.
- Kristol argues the operation is ego-driven, lacks a plan, and risks worse outcomes.
Skillful Execution, Reckless Messaging
- The U.S. operation showed competent military capability, which Kristol found reassuring.
- But Trump’s public statements turned a plausible success into a risky, destabilizing gamble.
Venezuela Oil Won't Solve Markets
- Oil is being overstated as a motive and benefit of the intervention.
- Kristol says Venezuelan oil would barely move global markets and won't quickly revive production.