Crude oil softens ahead of Geneva talks, Brent slips below $68; Is Trump’s threat of ‘regime change’ affecting Iran?:

New Delhi. Crude oil prices have once again started fluctuating in the global market. Crude oil prices appear to be under pressure ahead of two important international meetings to be held in Geneva on Tuesday, February 17, 2026—the first US-Iran nuclear talks and the second Russia-Ukraine peace talks. Brent crude has fallen below the psychological level of $68, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) is also trading near $63 per barrel.

Trump’s warning to Iran: “Regime change is the best outcome”

American President is behind this softening of crude oil prices donald trump It is believed to be the latest statement of. Trump said in strong words on Friday that the most pleasant outcome for Iran would be “regime change”. This statement has increased psychological pressure on Tehran before the Geneva talks.

Politics of pressure: Experts believe that the Trump administration is pressurizing Iran for a ‘traumatic’ agreement, failing which there is a possibility of military action. Due to this uncertainty, oil futures have lost their recent gains.

Great brainstorming in Geneva: World’s eyes fixed on Iran and Ukraine

Today (Tuesday) is a big day for global diplomacy. The future of the world is being decided at two different tables in Geneva, Switzerland:

US-Iran nuclear talks: Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner will discuss the prospects of a nuclear deal with Iranian representatives.

Russia-Ukraine peace talks: Representatives of Russia and Ukraine will face each other in US mediation to end the four-year-old war. However, there is little hope of a major ‘breakthrough’ after the recent drone attacks on Russian ports.

OPEC+’s ‘April’ plan: Preparation to increase production?

A new movement has also started in the market regarding supply. OPEC+ Some members of the have indicated that they april We can gradually increase production.

March 1 meeting: Members of the alliance believe that the fear of glut of oil in the market is being exaggerated. However, the final decision to increase production will be taken in the meeting on March 1, which will largely depend on Trump’s Iran policy and global demand.

IEA estimates: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has reduced its global oil demand forecast for this year. 8,50,000 barrels per day This has put further pressure on prices.

Current status of crude oil (16-17 February 2026)