US President Donald Trump issued a thinly veiled threat against Cuba during a speech at a Saudi-backed investment forum in Miami on Friday, declaring the Caribbean island nation would be his administration's next target while dismissing concerns about political fallout from recent military operations.
Speaking at the FII Priority investment forum, Trump referenced his administration's January military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, using it to justify potential future actions. The president's comments came as Cuba faces mounting pressure from his administration, including a de facto oil blockade imposed in January.
I built this great military. I said, "You'll never have to use it," but sometimes you have to use it. And Cuba is next, by the way. But pretend I didn't say that.
Donald Trump, US President — Dawn
Trump attempted to walk back his statement moments later, instructing media to disregard his comments before immediately repeating the threat to audience laughter. He provided no specifics about what actions his administration might take against the communist-governed island nation.
The president's remarks underscore his administration's broader strategy to tighten Washington's grip on Latin America during his second term. Relations between the US and Cuba, which had shown signs of improvement in recent years, have deteriorated significantly since Trump returned to office.
Dawn presents Trump's threats objectively while providing context about Cuba's domestic challenges. The outlet emphasizes the vague nature of Trump's comments and Cuba's defiant response to external pressure.