On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump praised the courage of Cubans who fled the island in search of freedom, highlighting the perilous conditions they faced during their journey.
Trump noted that many of these Cubans are eager to return to their homeland or reunite with family members. He stated, "Many would like to go back. The men would at least like to visit their families."
In his remarks, Trump also mentioned ongoing discussions with Cuban leaders, suggesting that both parties might be nearing a potential agreement. "We are currently engaging with Cuban leaders. I think we're quite close to a deal," he remarked.
The president emphasized that Cuba is "a failed nation," pointing out that it no longer receives financial support from Venezuela or any other country. He further asserted that Mexico would cease its oil shipments to the island.
Trump's comments come amid his administration's increased pressure on countries supplying oil to Cuba, including Mexico, in an effort to cut off the regime's financial resources and force Havana to negotiate from a position of economic weakness.
Recently, Trump has ordered the pursuit of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean and directed the Southern Command to continue intercepting ships involved in the illegal transport of Venezuelan crude to Cuba.
Washington has described these efforts as part of a "long-range operation" aimed at stopping the energy flow that the White House claims "sustains corrupt regimes and criminal organizations."
Simultaneously, Trump has stated that Mexico will halt its oil exports to Cuba, a claim that contrasts with statements from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. She announced on Sunday that her government is preparing to send humanitarian aid to the island, including food and basic supplies, and denied discussing energy issues with Trump.
These pressure tactics from Washington come as Cuba endures one of its most severe energy crises in decades, characterized by widespread blackouts and fuel shortages.
In this context, Trump has reiterated that his aim is not to punish the Cuban people but to expedite "a transition to a free and prosperous Cuba," a sentiment he has reinforced with frequent references to the Cuban exile community and Cuban Americans in Florida, whom he considers a cornerstone of his policy toward the island.
Understanding U.S. Policies Toward Cuba
What are the current U.S. policies regarding oil shipments to Cuba?
The U.S. has increased pressure on countries that supply oil to Cuba, aiming to cut off financial resources and force the Cuban regime to negotiate from a position of economic weakness. This includes intercepting ships transporting Venezuelan crude to the island.
How does Trump's policy affect Cuban Americans in Florida?
Trump views Cuban Americans in Florida as a key part of his policy toward Cuba, often referencing the exile community as a foundation for his strategy to promote a transition to a free and prosperous Cuba.