Following an operation that resulted in the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that if he were in Havana, he would be “a little worried.” President Donald Trump echoed this sentiment, describing the situation as “a very similar case” and affirming a commitment to “help the people of Cuba” in the face of “Castroism.”
Cuban Influence in Venezuela
Rubio, during a press conference detailing the “lightning operation” that captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas, asserted that the operation represents a significant blow to Cuban intelligence and security. He stated that Cuba had “basically colonized Venezuela from the security point of view.”
Rubio further emphasized that individuals protecting Maduro, including those within the Venezuelan intelligence agency, were largely Cuban. He stated, “We have won the game. All those guards who help protect Maduro… even the espionage agency (Venezuelan) was full of Cubans.”
The Secretary of State also stated that Venezuela “should declare its independence from Cuba” following Maduro’s removal. Trump, speaking from Mar-a-Lago alongside Rubio, characterized the Cuban system as “not good for Cuba,” stating that the Cuban people have “suffered for many, many years” and that the United States “want to help that people.”
Economic Implications and Future Outlook
Trump described the situation as similar to Venezuela, reiterating a desire to assist the Cuban people and those who have left Cuba to live in the United States. He emphasized a preference for “good neighbors and stability.”
Rubio also announced that the embargo on Venezuelan oil would remain in place, and consequently, the U.S. would block the shipment of fuel to Cuba, which he described as an “essential economic lifeline” for the island nation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Secretary Rubio say about those in Havana?
Secretary Rubio stated that if he were in Havana, he would be “a little worried” following the operation that removed Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela.
What did President Trump say about Cuba?
President Trump stated that the Cuban system is “not good for Cuba” and that the U.S. wants to help the Cuban people, whom he described as having “suffered for many, many years.”
What action is being taken regarding fuel shipments to Cuba?
Rubio affirmed that the embargo on Venezuelan oil will remain, and the U.S. will block the shipment of fuel to Cuba, which is described as an essential economic lifeline for the island.
Given these developments, what impact might a continued embargo and blocked fuel shipments have on the future stability of Cuba?
