U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American and longtime critic of the Cuban government, is attending a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) summit to discuss regional stability. His participation follows a significant meeting where he was present for President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, highlighting a shift in U.S. foreign policy focused on the Western Hemisphere under the 'Monroe Doctrine'. This marks a crucial moment for Rubio, who has aimed throughout his political career to undermine Havana's authority.

At the summit, Rubio is expected to encourage collaboration among Caribbean nations regarding the crises in Venezuela and Haiti, illustrating the interconnectedness of regional issues that the U.S. seeks to influence. Interestingly, Cuba is not a member of CARICOM, underscoring the delicate political dynamics at play as the U.S. attempts to shape outcomes in the region without direct Cuban participation. This meeting in St. Kitts and Nevis, a small nation with a rich history, also underscores the importance Rubio places on fostering relationships with neighboring countries that share U.S. concerns about Cuba's governance and its impact on regional security.

The context of Rubio's meeting points to a larger strategy by the U.S. to exert its influence in the Caribbean while countering China's growing engagement in the region. As American foreign policy pivots back to its historical focus on Latin America, the implications of these discussions could resonate widely, affecting not just Cuba, but also Venezuela and other nations struggling with political instability. Rubio's presence signals a commitment from the U.S. to actively intervene in regional affairs that it deems critical to its strategic interests.