U.S. President Donald Trump has labeled Cuba a "failed nation," asserting that the country "can't survive" during a media interaction on Thursday in Washington.
When a journalist inquired if his administration's new measures were aimed at "suffocating" the island, Trump responded:
The president stated, "No, that's not my intention. However, it seems like something that simply cannot endure. I believe Cuba will not be able to survive."
Trump's remarks came shortly after he signed an executive order declaring a national emergency, citing that the policies and actions of the Cuban government pose "an unusual and extraordinary threat" to the security and foreign policy of the United States.
The order outlines a tariff system that enables additional duties on goods originating from countries that sell or supply oil to Cuba, whether directly or indirectly.
The president emphasized that his administration has "zero tolerance for the actions of the Cuban communist regime" and that the U.S. will act to "protect its national security and interests" while supporting the Cuban people's aspirations for a free society.
Trump's statements underscore his administration's firm stance against the Havana regime amid the island's most severe energy and economic crisis in decades.
Understanding the U.S. Stance on Cuba
What measures has the U.S. imposed against Cuba?
The U.S. has implemented an executive order introducing a tariff system that imposes additional duties on goods from countries supplying oil to Cuba, directly or indirectly.
Why does Trump consider Cuba a failed nation?
Trump believes Cuba is unable to survive due to its current political and economic conditions, which he argues pose significant threats to U.S. security and foreign policy.
How does the U.S. plan to support the Cuban people?
The U.S. aims to protect its national security while supporting the Cuban people's aspirations for a free society, as articulated by President Trump.