American academics Christopher Sabatini and Catherine Hansing have voiced concerns over President Donald Trump’s lack of a coherent strategy for intervention in Cuba. In a recent op-ed in the New York Times, they argue that while Trump has proposed various intervention options including a friendly takeover or economic 'liberation' without fully changing the regime, there remains no clear vision of what success would entail. The authors warn that continued pressures aimed at dismantling Cuba's government may lead to chaos and potentially ignite a new refugee crisis.

The piece emphasizes that merely pursuing an economic deal for Cuba could yield only a temporary diplomatic gain, which might consequently close off any genuine opportunities for political progress in the country. The authors remind readers of the over fifty-year-old U.S. embargo on Cuba, which was intended to compel the Cuban communist government to capitulate or igniting a massive popular uprising against it. However, they note that authoritarian regimes rarely succumb to external sanctions or threats, underscoring the complexity of the situation.

In conclusion, the authors contend that without a clear, achievable strategy, U.S. interventions in Cuba run the risk of repeating past failures while overlooking the unique political and social dynamics of the island. They call for a re-evaluation of America’s approach to Cuba, focusing not just on immediate responses but also on fostering long-term stability and viable political solutions for the Cuban people.