In a recent report, KeyBanc analysts warned that the U.S. military’s capture of Venezuelan President Maduro could trigger larger-scale geopolitical turmoil and significantly drive up the risk premium on global oil prices. The analysts noted that such a move would be tantamount to “stirring up a hornet’s nest,” and that Friday’s closing prices for WTI and Brent crude had not yet reflected this geopolitical shock. The report emphasized that the fallout from this incident could extend to neighboring countries in the region, such as Mexico and Colombia. More seriously, the U.S.’s hardline stance could prompt Russia to adopt a more aggressive posture regarding the Ukraine issue. Analysts believe that the upheaval in Venezuela could push several fragile geopolitical situations around the world to the brink of violent conflict, making it necessary to factor a higher risk premium into oil prices.