In a new foreign policy move, President Donald Trump is eyeing actions in Cuba following the ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The Trump administration has been engaged in a week-long conflict with Iran, resulting in significant casualties among Iranian top officials and an estimated daily spending of nearly $900 million on munitions. Despite being elected on a domestic-focused platform, President Trump is now considering a third foreign campaign after the current Iran situation.
During an interview with CNN, President Trump expressed confidence in Cuba’s imminent collapse due to the economic pressures imposed by his administration, particularly through restrictions on oil trade with Venezuela. He mentioned plans to assign Marco Rubio as the Secretary of State to oversee the situation in Cuba, emphasizing the country’s readiness for a deal after decades of strained relations.
Cuba is currently facing severe challenges, including frequent power cuts due to fuel shortages exacerbated by the US embargo since January. Previously reliant on Venezuelan oil, Cuba’s energy supply has been severely disrupted, impacting vital sectors like tourism. While the economic strain could be perceived as a strategy to destabilize the Cuban government, the effects have predominantly burdened the general population, leading to hardships like cooking with firewood and restrictions on transportation and electricity.
The situation in Cuba remains uncertain, with no official confirmation of negotiations between Havana and the Trump administration. The ongoing developments highlight the complex dynamics at play in the region and the potential implications for both countries.