On Friday, President Donald Trump declared that Cuba is his next target, humorously urging the media to disregard his own statement in a message shared on social media.
The exact words from the clip were: "Please, pretend I didn't say that. Please, please, please, media, please ignore that statement. Thank you very much. Cuba is next. Despite the government shutdown by the radical left Democrats, we will continue to defend sovereign borders."
Journalist Eric Daugherty shared the video on X, noting, "Marco Rubio is negotiating behind the scenes," highlighting the significant role the Secretary of State plays in Washington's approach to Havana.
Escalating Rhetoric on Cuba
This statement comes amidst an ongoing escalation of presidential rhetoric about Cuba. At the Shield of the Americas summit on March 7, held in Doral, Florida, Trump proclaimed that "Cuba is in its last moments of life."
On March 16, he stated, "I will have the honor of taking Cuba," asserting that he believes he could do whatever he wants with the country. The following day, on March 17, he described Cuba as a "failed nation" that "needs to change dramatically."
Maximum Pressure Strategy
This rhetoric aligns with a maximum pressure strategy initiated on January 29 with the signing of Executive Order 14380, where Trump declared Cuba an extraordinary threat and imposed tariffs on countries supplying it with oil.
The measure worsened an already severe energy crisis: Cuba lost Venezuelan oil supplies ranging from 26,000 to 35,000 barrels per day after Nicolás Maduro was captured in January.
Exploring Diplomatic Avenues
Simultaneously, the administration is exploring a diplomatic path. On February 27, Trump mentioned that "Marco Rubio is handling this at a very high level" and joked in March that Rubio "will take an hour off and then close a deal on Cuba."
On March 13, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed bilateral talks with the United States, with the regime agreeing to release 51 political prisoners as part of the process.
On the same Friday, Democratic congress members, led by Representatives Meeks and Jayapal, introduced the so-called "Law to Prevent an Unconstitutional War in Cuba," legislation aimed at blocking the use of federal funds for military actions against the island without Congressional approval.
Reports from The Atlantic, Bloomberg, and USA Today, citing White House sources, indicate the administration does not plan a direct military invasion but rather a gradual transition through economic pressure and negotiation with regime figures.
Understanding U.S. Policy Toward Cuba
What did Trump say about Cuba being his next target?
Trump humorously declared that Cuba is his next target, asking the media to ignore his statement, despite ongoing tensions and a strategy of maximum pressure on the island.
What is the significance of Executive Order 14380?
Executive Order 14380, signed by Trump, declared Cuba an extraordinary threat and imposed tariffs on countries supplying it with oil, exacerbating the energy crisis in Cuba.
How is Marco Rubio involved in U.S.-Cuba relations?
Marco Rubio is playing a crucial role in negotiations concerning U.S. strategy towards Cuba, with Trump mentioning his high-level involvement in handling the situation.
What are the goals of the legislation introduced by Democratic congress members?
The legislation aims to prevent the use of federal funds for military actions against Cuba without Congressional authorization, reflecting concerns over potential military escalation.