Former President Donald J. Trump has stirred up fresh controversy amidst the shifting geopolitical landscape in Latin America following the military capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro.
On Truth Social, Trump reshared a post from a user claiming that Secretary of State Marco Rubio—a son of Cuban immigrants—should become the "president of Cuba." Trump added his endorsement to the idea with a comment that read, "Sounds good to me!"
The initial post, dated January 8, came from a user named Cliff Smith, who describes himself on social media as a "conservative Californian."
The post, accompanied by a laughing emoji, paints a picture where Rubio, a significant figure in American politics and an outspoken critic of authoritarian regimes in both Cuba and Venezuela, would take on the Cuban presidency.
Although Trump did not provide further context, his nod of approval quickly propelled the unprecedented post into the spotlight, despite the absence of any evidence that Washington has such a plan or formal policy in place.
This statement emerges during a critical time for the Cuban regime.
In the wake of the U.S. operation in Venezuela on January 3, which led to Maduro's capture and resulted in the deaths of numerous Venezuelan and Cuban military personnel, the U.S. administration has ramped up its political and diplomatic pressure in the region.
On Sunday, Trump issued a warning to Cuba concerning its longstanding ties with Caracas, urging Havana to "reach an agreement" with the United States before it's too late, amid economic sanctions and the cessation of Venezuelan oil shipments that previously supported Cuba's fragile economy.
"There will be no more oil or money for Cuba. None! I strongly advise you to make a deal before it's too late," Trump declared on Truth Social.
Trump's Views on Cuba's Political Future
What prompted Trump to suggest Marco Rubio as president of Cuba?
Trump's suggestion came after he shared a post on Truth Social from a user suggesting Marco Rubio as the president of Cuba. Trump endorsed the idea with a supportive comment.
What has been the U.S. response to Cuba's ties with Venezuela?
The U.S. has intensified political and diplomatic pressure on Cuba, particularly after a military operation in Venezuela that led to Nicolás Maduro's capture. Trump has urged Cuba to negotiate with the U.S., warning of the cessation of Venezuelan oil and economic support.