President Donald Trump is widening his campaign against Cuba by exerting renewed pressure on Italy to stop employing Cuban doctors, a move reflecting ongoing tensions regarding Cuba's international labor practices. Trump's primary diplomat in Havana is currently in Italy championing this cause, seeking support from local officials to halt contracts with Cuban health workers.

The employment of Cuban medical professionals abroad is a significant source of revenue for the economically troubled island, at times exceeding tourism income. The U.S. government views this practice as tantamount to forced labor, which has prompted a series of diplomatic approaches aimed at undermining the program, especially in countries like Italy that have been utilizing these services.

Mike Hammer, the U.S. charge d'affaires in Cuba, plans to visit Calabria next week to directly engage local authorities about ceasing the hiring of Cuban healthcare personnel. This visit underscores the Trump administration's commitment to pressuring international partners to rethink agreements that they have with Cuba, potentially exacerbating the ongoing political and economic struggles faced by the island nation as it relies on international support.