The article explores the shifting dynamics of U.S. relations with Latin America, particularly in light of recent developments in Venezuela and Cuba. It emphasizes that the U.S. views Latin America as a vital region due to its geographic proximity, natural resources, and the perceived threats to U.S. stability from drug trafficking and anti-American regimes. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's decline in influence is seen as linked to the long-standing tensions with U.S. policies, which have been particularly focused on Cuba given its historical ties to Venezuela.

The piece highlights how the Trump administration, particularly through figures like Marco Rubio, targeted Cuba as a primary concern. The article notes that the Cuban community in the U.S., which has been historically opposed to Fidel Castro's regime, initially believed that the collapse of Soviet support would lead to the end of the Castro government. However, Hugo Chavez's presidency in Venezuela provided critical support to Cuba, significantly influencing its economy through oil supplies at reduced prices.

With Cuba's reliance on Venezuelan oil now diminished, there is a growing belief in Washington that the pathway to meaningful change in Cuba is contingent upon the stability of the current Venezuelan regime. The article insinuates that halting the oil shipments from Venezuela to Cuba might precipitate a crisis leading to the downfall of the Cuban government, particularly under the leadership of Miguel Díaz-Canel.