President Donald Trump issued a new warning to the Cuban regime on Saturday, emphasizing that "no more oil or money" from Venezuela will reach the island and urging Havana to "negotiate before it's too late."
This declaration, shared on his social media platform Truth Social, follows the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores during a U.S. military operation in Caracas. This event has dramatically altered the political landscape of the region, leaving Cuba in a precarious position.
"For many years, Cuba relied heavily on substantial amounts of oil and financial support from Venezuela. In return, Cuba provided 'security services' to the last two Venezuelan dictators. But no more!" Trump stated, adding, "Most of those Cubans perished in last week's attack."
The U.S. leader declared that "Venezuela no longer requires protection from the thugs and extortionists" dispatched by Havana, asserting that henceforth, "the United States will safeguard the Venezuelan people."
Trump's message concluded with a veiled threat: "I suggest you make a deal before it's too late."
This statement comes amid the most severe diplomatic tensions between Washington and Havana in decades. Recently, U.S. officials have indicated that Cuba could face further sanctions if its military or intelligence involvement in Venezuela is confirmed.
The Cuban regime, on the defensive, has responded with heightened rhetoric and internal mobilizations. Since Friday, the Central Army has commenced exercises for "National Defense Day," portraying them as a show of "unity and resolve" against what they label as "imperial threats."
Nonetheless, analysts note that the defiant tone of Miguel Díaz-Canel's government contrasts sharply with its growing isolation and internal crisis. "Trump's message aims to make it clear that the noose is tightening," commented a Latin American diplomat. "And this time, Cuba no longer has a protector."
Implications of Trump's Warning to Cuba
What prompted Trump's warning to Cuba?
Trump's warning was triggered by the recent U.S. military operation in Caracas, which led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores, shifting the political dynamics in the region and affecting Cuba's position.
How does the U.S. plan to support Venezuela?
Trump stated that the United States will now protect the Venezuelan people, eliminating the need for Cuban-backed security forces previously present in the country.
What measures might the U.S. take against Cuba?
The U.S. may impose additional sanctions on Cuba if it is confirmed that the Cuban regime is involved in military or intelligence activities in Venezuela.