Cuba is ‘next’ on U.S. agenda, after Iran, Trump says
President Trump has declared Cuba as the next target for U.S. foreign policy after Iran, anticipating its regime's collapse due to ongoing pressures.
In a recent interview, President Donald Trump indicated that Cuba is next on the U.S. agenda following Iran, which shows a shift in the foreign policy focus of the Trump administration. Trump expressed confidence that the Cuban regime, under strain due to U.S. sanctions and an energy blockade, is on the verge of collapse. His administration believes that the current situation in Cuba is unsustainable and that there is a significant desire within the Cuban populace for change.
Trump's confidence stems from ongoing discussions with allies and a keen observation of the Cuban political landscape. He has stated that Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has Cuban roots and is a vocal advocate for regime change in Cuba, will lead the charge on this front. The emphasis on Rubio’s involvement highlights the administration's strategy of leveraging Cuban-American sentiments and political connections to influence change in Havana. This determination to focus resources and diplomatic efforts on Cuba reflects a broader policy goal of reshaping U.S.-Latin American relations under Trump's presidency.
The implications of pushing for regime change in Cuba, especially following the administration's active pursuit of sanctions and geopolitical pressures in other regions, could heighten tensions in U.S.-Cuba relations. As both Trump and Rubio have articulated their aspirations for a different Cuban governance framework, this could lead to a new wave of political engagement or confrontation as the U.S. seeks to realign its interests in the region.