The recent warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump to the Cuban regime have sparked a range of reactions among the island's residents, oscillating between fear of potential escalation and hope for a peaceful political shift.
According to EFE, many Cubans are skeptical about the likelihood of these threats being realized, yet they acknowledge that the current political climate might signal a turning point following the U.S. military operation in Caracas that led to the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, on January 3.
"We Cubans hope for a change that will benefit us. We need to see how Trump acts. Hopefully, the people won't suffer from whatever happens, and the change will occur peacefully," expressed a resident of Old Havana, interviewed on Obispo Street.
This week, President Trump warned that Cuba is in a "vulnerable position without Maduro's economic support" and urged Miguel Díaz-Canel's government to "reach an agreement before it's too late."
Trump insisted that the island's leaders "can allow a real economy where people thrive or continue their failed dictatorship, leading to systemic collapse."
The regime's response was swift, as expected, full of rhetoric. Díaz-Canel called for "defending the homeland to the last drop of blood" and denied any engagement with Washington.
Meanwhile, on Havana's streets, there is a prevailing mix of fatigue, caution, and distrust.
A 63-year-old Habanero, who chose to remain anonymous, stated, "There needs to be an opening that benefits everyone. Why can't there be multiple parties or different ways of thinking?"
Others prefer to stay out of it. "It's better to stay calm, as we are, than to get involved in that shooting. In the end, it's us at the bottom who suffer the most," said Adonis López, a 36-year-old.
Some appeal to officialist patriotism. "The United States has always tried to take over Cuba, but they've always met with our resistance," asserted a woman identifying as a revolutionary.
Another interviewee, sitting in his pedicab near the Capitol, added, "There's no fear here. If there's war, we have to fight back against the United States, even if it's a major power."
Conversely, some Cubans downplay Trump's words. "I don't believe he'll go that far. No one will be taken away here," said Miguel González, a 66-year-old street sweeper.
Leidy Santos, a street vendor, agreed: "Nothing's going to happen, but I pray to God every day for things to stay the same."
The statements reflect the social polarization gripping the country. Some trust that international pressure will hasten a political transition, while others fear a new crisis or military conflict.
For now, the dominant message among Habaneros is clear: they desire change, but without war.
Understanding Cuban Reactions to U.S. Political Pressure
What are Cubans hoping for in terms of political change?
Cubans are hoping for a change that benefits the people, ideally through a peaceful transition that avoids conflict and economic hardship.
How has the Cuban government responded to Trump's threats?
The Cuban government, led by Miguel Díaz-Canel, responded with rhetoric, emphasizing the need to defend the nation and denying any contact with the U.S. administration.
Are there differing opinions among Cubans regarding U.S. intervention?
Yes, opinions vary widely. Some Cubans are hopeful for international pressure to prompt political change, while others fear potential conflict and prefer to maintain the status quo.