President Donald Trump stated on Monday that his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, is currently engaged in discussions with Cuba regarding a potential “agreement.” However, Trump indicated that a military operation similar to the one conducted in Venezuela is “not necessary.”
“We are talking to Cuba right now. Marco Rubio is talking to Cuba right now, and they should totally approach to an agreement, because it’s… really a humanitarian threat,” Trump said to reporters aboard Air Force One.
- The president reiterated that Cuba is a “failed nation,” expressed regret that “they have no fuel for planes to take off and these are piling up on the runways,” and anticipated that Cuban-Americans “will be happy when they can return” to the island to reunite with their families.
“I am very interested in the people who are here, who were treated very badly by the Castro regime and the Cuban authorities; they have treated them horribly. We will see how it all turns out, but we are talking to Cuba,” Trump declared.
Trump also defended his position that “there should be no oil, no money, no anything” flowing to Cuba, referencing U.S. Sanctions against countries that sell or provide oil to Havana.
Cuba’s Energy Situation and Sanctions in 2024
When asked about the possibility of a military operation like the one that led to the capture of deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Trump declined to answer but stated that “it would not be a very hard operation” and that he “does not believe that is necessary.”
Cuba has been experiencing a “deep energy crisis” since mid-2024, which has been exacerbated since January by increased difficulties in accessing fuel and by the latest Venezuelan oil blockade towards the island ordered by Trump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the U.S. Considering military intervention in Cuba?
President Trump stated that a military operation is “not necessary,” but did not rule it out entirely when directly questioned.
What is the current state of U.S.-Cuba relations?
The U.S. Continues to impose sanctions restricting the flow of oil and money to Cuba, while simultaneously engaging in direct talks with Cuban officials through Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
What is Cuba currently experiencing?
Cuba is facing a “deep energy crisis” with difficulties accessing fuel, and planes are accumulating on runways due to a lack of fuel.
Given the ongoing discussions and the complex situation in Cuba, what role might international diplomacy play in addressing the humanitarian concerns and potential for further instability?
