Former U.S. President Donald Trump stirred up social media once more on Saturday by reposting an image on his Truth Social account. The picture, crafted by a user, depicts him enjoying a cigar on a street in Havana.
In the backdrop, the Cuban flag flutters alongside the phrase: “The Finest in the World. Cuban Cigars.” The former White House resident is shown amidst palm trees and vintage cars, a scene emblematic of Cuba’s capital.
The image, initially shared on X (formerly known as Twitter) by user @ChristineYeder1, came with the caption: “It certainly would,” and was re-shared by Trump without any additional remarks.
However, the image sparked a flurry of political interpretations against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Washington and Havana, following the capture of Nicolás Maduro and recent U.S. warnings directed at the Cuban regime.
Analysts viewed this act as both a symbolic provocation and a veiled message, portraying strength and control at a time when the U.S. government is urging Cuba to “negotiate before it’s too late.”
The image—which invokes the iconic symbols of tourism on the "paradise island"—plays with the irony of a U.S. leader relishing in the most famous product of the island, even as his administration ramps up diplomatic and economic pressure on Miguel Díaz-Canel's regime.
On social media, Trump supporters hailed the post as a “victory signal” against communism, while critics labeled it an “imperial provocation.”
The post, garnering thousands of interactions within hours, underscores how Trump continues to wield visual communication as a political tool, with Cuba re-emerging as a symbolic stage for showcasing hemispheric strength and dominance.
Understanding Trump's Impact and Symbolism in Cuban Relations
Why did Trump share an image of himself smoking a cigar in Havana?
Trump shared the image to symbolize a blend of provocation and power amid increasing tensions between the U.S. and Cuba. It serves as a political statement amid diplomatic strains.
How did people react to Trump's post on social media?
Reactions were mixed; Trump's supporters celebrated it as a symbol of victory over communism, while opponents criticized it as an act of imperial provocation.