US President Donald Trump has dropped a big hint that that Cuba could be the next focus of Washington’s foreign policy, following recent US operations in Venezuela and Iran.
While speaking at an investment
forum in Miami, Trump declared, “Cuba is next,” while praising what he described as successful US military operations abroad.
While the US President did not specify what precisely he plans to do with the island nation, he has frequently said he believes the government in Havana, facing a severe economic crisis, is on the verge of collapse.
Although the US President did not outline a clear plan, his remarks hinted at a range of possibilities – from negotiations to potential military action. “I built this great military… sometimes you have to use it. And Cuba is next, by the way,” Trump said, before adding, “But pretend I didn’t say that.”
The comments came at a time when Cuba is grappling with a deep economic crisis, worsened by fuel shortages after the collapse of oil supplies from Venezuela. The disruption followed a U.S.-backed operation that led to the removal of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, cutting off a key energy lifeline for Havana.
Trump has repeatedly suggested that Cuba’s government is on the verge of collapse and has previously floated the idea of a “friendly takeover”.
Earlier this month, he described a potential US move as a “friendly takeover,” adding it “may not be.”
He also said that he expects to have the “honour” of “taking Cuba in some form.” Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he believes he could “free it” or “take it,” adding that he has the ability to do “anything” he wants with the island.
Despite the strong rhetoric, US officials say that diplomatic channels remain open, with ongoing talks involving Cuban leadership.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has acknowledged these discussions, signaling Havana’s willingness to engage in dialogue to avoid confrontation even as pressure from Washington intensifies.
The renewed focus on Cuba underscores a broader shift in US foreign policy under Trump, marked by assertive actions and blunt messaging.
According to a report in the New York Times, removing Cuban President Miguel Daz-Canel is a key US objective in the talks, though the next steps are being left to Cuban authorities.
