Within the Trump administration, two distinct perspectives on Cuba coexist, vividly illustrated by Cuban-American historian and entrepreneur Omar Sixto. He famously remarked that the president has "two ears," with Marco Rubio speaking into one and JD Vance into the other. This metaphor, shared in an interview with El País on July 13, 2026, sparked a lively debate in the latest CiberCuba discussion about Cuba's transition.
Sixto, along with fellow panelists Alejandro González Acosta and Jorge L. León, agreed that "since the start of this second administration, a clear dichotomy has existed within the government—outwardly harmonious, but internally divided." The divergence between Rubio and Vance goes beyond style; it determines the specific policy Washington implements towards Havana.
The Divergent Paths of Rubio and Vance
Marco Rubio, a South Miami native and son of Cuban immigrants, champions a policy of maximum pressure. Described by the panelists as someone deeply knowledgeable about international politics and foreign relations, Rubio has firsthand experience with "the malign role that dictatorship has played for 67 years," shaped by his years in Congress debating foreign policy.
As Secretary of State, Rubio has spearheaded over 240 sanctions against the Cuban regime since January 2026, targeting entities like GAESA, CUPET, and individuals such as Miguel Díaz-Canel, Lis Cuesta Peraza, and Alejandro Castro Espín.
In contrast, Vice President JD Vance presents the alternative approach. A native of West Virginia and military veteran, Vance represents "the strong American aspect of MAGA," as analyzed by Sixto in the discussion. His base comprises "workers who lost jobs when factories moved to Mexico," a demographic traditionally less focused on international affairs. This differing perspective has tangible outcomes: on June 18, 2026, Vance confirmed ongoing talks with the Cuban regime, stating, "If they make smart decisions, we'll have a much better relationship with that island."
Trump's Ambiguous Stance and Future Implications
During a dinner with business leaders at the end of 2025, Trump was asked to choose between the two, responding with varied praise for each, avoiding a clear preference. This ambiguity fuels uncertainty about Washington's direction with Cuba ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections.
The debate also carries political implications for the future: Rubio and Vance are potential contenders for 2028, adding an electoral dimension to their strategic differences regarding Cuba.
In closing, the discussion moderated by journalist Tania Costa ended with a symbolic statement. One panelist expressed hope that when Rubio speaks to Trump, he uses "the right ear, nearly grazed by a bullet," referencing the assassination attempt on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a bullet skimmed the then-Republican candidate's right ear. The metaphor serves as a reminder that "the enemy never rests and is willing to go to any lengths. And Cuba is the enemy."
Understanding the U.S.-Cuba Policy Divide
Who are the key figures influencing Trump's Cuba policy?
Marco Rubio and JD Vance are the main figures shaping Trump's approach to Cuba, representing two different strategies within the administration.
What is Marco Rubio's stance on Cuba?
Marco Rubio advocates for a policy of maximum pressure against the Cuban regime, implementing over 240 sanctions since 2026.
How does JD Vance's approach to Cuba differ?
JD Vance favors dialogue with the Cuban regime, suggesting that improved relations are possible if rational decisions are made by Cuba.