Donald Trump has intensified his rhetoric against Cuba, claiming he could “do anything” with the island nation, even as US and Cuban officials engage in talks to resolve ongoing disputes.
His comments come amid a worsening energy crisis caused by a US oil blockade.
Trump told reporters that he expects to have the “honor” of taking Cuba in some form, adding, “Whether I free it, take it… I think I can do anything I want with it.”
The remarks come in the wake of the US ousting former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and targeting Iran, raising speculation about future US policy toward Cuba.
Talks between US and Cuba
Despite the rhetoric, the two countries have initiated discussions aimed at improving bilateral relations.
Citing sources, the New York Times reported that a key US objective is the removal of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel. Cuba, however, maintains that any interference in its internal affairs is unacceptable, emphasizing sovereignty and self-determination.
Diaz-Canel has stressed that negotiations should proceed “under the principles of equality and respect for the political systems of both countries.”
Economic and energy crisis in Cuba
US-imposed oil sanctions, compounded by the halt of Venezuelan oil shipments, have crippled Cuba’s energy infrastructure. The nation of 10 million faced a complete collapse of its electric grid, leaving the population without power.
Cuba has implemented severe energy rationing, disrupting daily life and halting much of its economy. The White House has not clarified any legal framework for potential intervention.
Following the removal of Maduro in Venezuela and recent military action against Iran, Trump indicated that Cuba could be next in line for similar pressure. He told reporters aboard Air Force One, “We're talking to Cuba, but we're going to do Iran before Cuba.”
Analysts note that while previous US presidents have opposed Cuba’s Communist government, Washington historically pledged not to invade, honoring agreements from the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962.
