Cuban-American Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has publicly addressed the ultimatum issued by President Donald Trump against the Cuban regime, declaring that the current moment represents a critical turning point for Havana.
On her X account, Salazar expressed agreement with Trump, stating that "the Cuban dictatorship has survived for decades by exporting repression, sending its intelligence and security forces to support dictators in Venezuela, Nicaragua, and elsewhere in exchange for oil and money."
Salazar warned Cuban leadership to closely examine recent events in Venezuela. "Havana should carefully consider what happened with Maduro. That's the fate that awaits dictators and their accomplices," she wrote.
She concluded her post with a phrase that quickly went viral: "The tyranny's days are numbered. Time is ticking."
Her comments came in response to a stern message from Trump on Truth Social targeting the regime in Havana.
In his post, Trump noted that "Cuba lived for many years on vast amounts of oil and money from Venezuela," and in return, Havana provided "security services" to Venezuela's last two dictators.
Trump emphasized that many of those Cubans perished in last week's American assault, asserting that "Venezuela no longer needs protection from the thugs and extortionists who held them hostage for so many years."
He declared, "No more oil or money for Cuba. Nothing!" and advised the regime to "make a deal before it’s too late."
This exchange has heightened political tensions between Washington and Havana, especially following the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro during a U.S. military operation in Caracas, resulting in the deaths of numerous Venezuelan and Cuban soldiers.
Salazar's warning extended beyond this message.
Earlier, the congresswoman had already directed stern remarks at Cuban ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel, warning him that justice will come "sooner or later."
In a message also shared on X, she told him, "As a handpicked dictator, you will have to answer for all the atrocities you and your predecessors inflicted upon the Cuban people."
Salazar listed various acts she believes should be judged: "For the blood-chilling downing of Brothers to the Rescue planes. For the executions. For the political prisoners. For the families torn apart and forced into exile. For a country held hostage by fear and repression for decades."
María Elvira responded to the Cuban leader, who countered Trump's ultimatum with a defiant message, asserting that "no one dictates to us what to do" and that Cuba is ready to defend itself "to the last drop of blood."
Questions About U.S.-Cuba Relations
What was President Trump's ultimatum to Cuba?
President Trump issued a stern warning to the Cuban regime, stating that there would be no more oil or money from Venezuela, and advised them to make a deal before it's too late.
How did María Elvira Salazar respond to Trump's ultimatum?
María Elvira Salazar supported Trump's stance, asserting that the Cuban dictatorship has long survived by exporting repression and should heed the lessons from recent events in Venezuela.
What are the implications of Salazar's statement for U.S.-Cuba relations?
Salazar's statement, alongside Trump's ultimatum, has increased tensions between the U.S. and Cuba, with potential implications for future diplomatic and economic interactions.