Cuba Next: Trump’s Threat After Venezuela & Iran

Trump Vows ‘Cuba’s Next’ Amidst Escalating Tensions and Economic Woes

In a bold declaration at a Saudi-backed business forum in Miami, United States President Donald Trump declared that “Cuba’s next” following his administration’s assertive stance on Iran. The remarks, delivered as part of his “peace through strength” foreign policy doctrine, were initially met with laughter from the audience. Trump, however, playfully attempted to retract the statement, urging the media to “pretend I didn’t say that.” Despite this, he later reiterated his conviction, stating, “Cuba’s next,” signalling a continued focus on the Caribbean nation.

This statement is not an isolated incident. The President has on multiple occasions hinted at a future intervention in Cuba, even expressing a desire to “have the honor of taking Cuba” just weeks prior. His administration’s approach to foreign policy has been characterised by a willingness to employ strong measures to achieve its objectives, as evidenced by his discussion of the successful operation to apprehend Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his efforts in bolstering Middle Eastern allies.

The event in Miami saw the presence of several high-profile figures, including the President’s son, Donald Trump Jr., his fiancée Bettina Anderson, his daughter Tiffany, and her husband Michael Boulos. Also in attendance were advisors Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, underscoring the significant circles in which the President operates.

Economic Pressure Mounts on Cuba Amidst US Embargo

The President’s threats against Cuba have been accompanied by tangible economic actions. In late January, Trump issued a warning of tariffs against any nation providing oil to the island, a move intended to pressure Cuba into altering its political system. While the initial tariff threats were subsequently softened, the long-standing US embargo remains firmly in place. This has had a severe impact on Cuba’s fuel supply, with the island reportedly not receiving any fuel shipments for the past three months.

The consequences of this fuel shortage are starkly visible across Cuba. Prolonged power outages have become a daily reality, crippling economic and social life. The nation’s power grid is in a state of disrepair, leading to frequent, widespread blackouts. In the past week alone, two nationwide blackouts plunged millions into darkness, highlighting the precariousness of Cuba’s energy infrastructure.

Diplomatic Channels Open Amidst Rising Tensions

Despite the escalating rhetoric and economic pressures, there are indications of ongoing diplomatic engagement between Cuba and the United States. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel revealed on Wednesday that former Cuban President Raúl Castro is involved in discussions between the island nation and the US.

President Díaz-Canel described these talks as being in their nascent stages. They emerge at a time of heightened tensions between the two countries. The conversations are being managed collectively by the Cuban government, as outlined by Díaz-Canel during an extensive videotaped interview with Spanish leftist leader Pablo Iglesias. This interview, shared by state media, provided insights into the complex diplomatic landscape.

Although Díaz-Canel officially assumed the presidency in 2018, the 94-year-old revolutionary figure, Raúl Castro, remains a pivotal and influential personality in Cuba. Iglesias’s visit to Cuba was part of a larger delegation of approximately 600 activists from 33 countries who were in the country to deliver humanitarian aid.

Díaz-Canel emphasised the protracted nature of diplomatic processes, stating, “A process of conversations that leads to an agreement is a long process.” He elaborated on the necessary steps, explaining, “First, we must build a channel for dialogue. Then, we must build common agendas of interests for the parties, and the parties must demonstrate their intention to move forward and truly commit to the program based on the discussion of those agendas.”

Humanitarian Crisis Looms as UN Warns of Severe Consequences

The escalating situation in Cuba has prompted grave concerns from international organisations. Francisco Pichón, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cuba, issued a stark warning that a continued deterioration of the current circumstances could precipitate a “humanitarian crisis.”

UN officials have underscored the urgent need for fuel to enter Cuba, alongside the exploration of solar power as a viable long-term solution. These measures are deemed essential to maintain the operation of critical infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, and to ensure the consistent supply of water for irrigation.

Pichón and his colleagues estimate that approximately $94 million is required to address the island’s energy deficit and to repair damage caused by last year’s hurricanes. The crippled energy grid poses a significant threat to public health and welfare. It is projected to disrupt essential surgeries for an estimated 96,000 individuals, including 11,000 children. Furthermore, it could lead to 30,000 minors falling behind on their vaccination schedules. The immediate impact is already being felt by those who rely on water delivered by trucks, with around a million people facing access issues.

“If the current situation continues and the country´s fuel reserves are depleted, we do fear an accelerated deterioration with the possible loss of lives,” stated Francisco Pichón, highlighting the dire humanitarian implications of the ongoing crisis.