On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump disclosed that his administration is actively engaged in discussions with senior figures within the Cuban regime to explore the potential for a new agreement with the island nation.
Speaking to reporters from his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, Trump stated that Washington is “engaging with top-level individuals in Cuba to see what unfolds.” He emphasized that his goal is to achieve an understanding that benefits both Cubans residing on the island and those living in exile.
“Cuba has been a failed state for a long time,” Trump remarked, pointing to the collapse of the island’s energy and financial support following the decline of the Venezuelan regime and the cessation of oil shipments.
The president highlighted his desire to ensure that Cubans who fled to the United States after being “horribly treated by the regime” receive recognition and support.
“I want these people to be taken care of, to have the chance to return and do what they need to do. Many have family there they haven’t seen in years,” he expressed.
Trump reiterated his ambition to reach a deal with Havana, though he did not specify any terms or conditions.
“I believe we’re going to make a deal with Cuba,” he asserted, noting that the current situation on the island is untenable and that his administration is “closely monitoring developments within the country.”
The president’s remarks come amid a tightening of economic and diplomatic pressure on Miguel Díaz-Canel’s regime. Washington continues to impose sanctions on countries supplying oil to Cuba and has declared a national emergency, citing the regime as a threat to U.S. security due to its alliances with Russia, China, Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas.
Trump insisted that any rapprochement must be conducted “from a position of strength” and aimed at achieving “a free, prosperous, and reconciled Cuba with its people.”
Key Discussions on U.S.-Cuba Relations
What is Trump's administration aiming to achieve with Cuba?
Trump's administration seeks to reach an agreement that benefits both Cubans on the island and those in exile, moving towards a free and prosperous Cuba.
Why is Trump engaging in talks with Cuban officials now?
The talks are occurring amid increased economic and diplomatic pressure on Cuba, with the U.S. aiming to address the country's untenable situation and its alliances that pose security threats to the United States.
How does Trump describe Cuba's current state?
Trump describes Cuba as a failed state, exacerbated by the loss of support from Venezuela, leading to energy and financial crises.