During a statement at the White House on Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Cuba's decades-long reliance on external "donors" — initially the Soviet Union and more recently Venezuela — has come to an end.
Rubio explained that the Cuban leadership has historically prioritized maintaining political control over developing a functional economy, a strategy that now leaves the nation vulnerable without such external support.
"They have managed to survive for over 60 years due to these donors, first from the Soviet Union and then Venezuela, but that support has vanished," Rubio remarked.
He further criticized the Cuban leadership, labeling them as "incompetent" individuals who lack an understanding of economic management, especially one that is successful. He argued that the regime's survival was due to over six decades of foreign aid.
Rubio urged that the absence of these subsidies forces Cuba’s leaders to choose between establishing a "real country with a real economy" where citizens can thrive, or persisting with their "failed dictatorship."
In the same briefing, Rubio warned that if the Cuban government continues its "false dictatorship," it will face inevitable "systemic and social collapse."
He clarified that the United States does not intend to "destabilize" Cuba, suggesting that any instability would result from the regime's refusal to allow "economic or political freedom" for its people.
Rubio's comments followed President Donald Trump's assertion that Cuba is in a dire situation, heavily reliant on Venezuela for "oil and money," and that such support is no longer forthcoming, especially in light of the regional context following U.S. intervention in Venezuela.
Recent analyses have highlighted the economic impact of reduced Venezuelan support on the island, noting severe strains on Cuba's economy, increased power outages, and shortages, though they stop short of predicting a governmental collapse.
Rubio also highlighted the potential influence of the Cuban diaspora, noting that many in the United States wish to return and contribute, citing examples of emigrants who left with nothing and found success elsewhere, a unique asset for Cuba.
President Trump vowed to explore ways to support Cubans in the United States who have suffered under the Castro regime.
Trump addressed the political and economic situation in Cuba, underscoring its historical dependency on Venezuela. He reiterated his commitment to aiding Cuban Americans and exiled communities who have long decried persecution and human rights abuses on the island.
Although Trump did not specify particular programs or policies, his statements conveyed a supportive stance toward the Cuban diaspora and acknowledged their hardships under the Castro regime.
Cuba's Economic and Political Challenges
Why did Marco Rubio say Cuba relied on external donors?
Rubio noted that Cuba depended on external donors, such as the Soviet Union and Venezuela, for over 60 years to sustain its political regime while neglecting a functional economy.
What is the current economic situation in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing severe economic strain due to the reduction of Venezuelan support, leading to increased power outages and shortages on the island.
What potential role does the Cuban diaspora have according to Rubio?
Rubio mentioned that the Cuban diaspora in the U.S. consists of many individuals eager to return and contribute to Cuba's development, leveraging their successful experiences abroad.
How has President Trump responded to the Cuban situation?
President Trump has expressed a commitment to support Cuban Americans and exiled communities, acknowledging their struggles under the Castro regime, although specific policies or programs have not been detailed.