President Donald Trump of the United States hinted at the possibility of action against Cuba akin to recent operations in Venezuela, although he emphasized that, at present, he sees no immediate necessity for such measures.
During a press interaction aboard Air Force One on February 16, 2026, Trump discussed the declining state of the Cuban regime, the humanitarian issues plaguing the Island, and ongoing discussions between his administration and Havana.
"They don't even have the fuel to get planes off the ground. They're blocking their own runway," Trump remarked, highlighting the severe energy shortages Cuba is currently experiencing.
The President confirmed that direct talks are ongoing between Washington and the Cuban government, naming Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a pivotal figure in these negotiations.
"We're in discussions with Cuba right now. Marco Rubio is talking with Cuba right now. And they absolutely should make a deal because it's a humanitarian threat," he stated.
Trump posited that reaching an agreement would particularly benefit the Cuban American community, which he claims has suffered for decades under Castro's policies.
"We have many wonderful Cuban Americans who will be very happy when they can return and greet their families... I'm deeply concerned about the people who were treated so poorly by Castro and the Cuban authorities," he declared.
Maximum Pressure and Implied Threat Trump reiterated that the Cuban regime is at a breaking point due to the embargo, oil scarcity, and lack of financial resources.
"Meanwhile, there's an embargo. There's no oil. There's no money. There's nothing," he affirmed.
When asked whether he would consider a military operation similar to the one in Venezuela if an agreement isn't reached, Trump sidestepped a direct answer but made a statement that has sparked concern.
"I don't want to answer that. If I did, it wouldn't be a very difficult operation, but I don't think it's necessary," he commented.
Cuba Under U.S. Pressure These comments come amid increasing pressure from Washington on Havana, as the economic and energy crisis in Cuba worsens following the halt of Venezuelan oil supplies.
International reports suggest Trump believes Cuba could crumble under the weight of sanctions without the need for direct intervention, yet he keeps the threat viable as a negotiation tool.
Analysts caution that such rhetoric exacerbates regional tensions and places Cuba at the center of a U.S. "maximum pressure" strategy, with direct consequences for the population already suffering from shortages and social decay.
U.S.-Cuba Relations Amidst Economic and Political Tensions
What is the current state of U.S.-Cuba relations?
The relationship is strained, with ongoing sanctions and diplomatic discussions aimed at addressing humanitarian and economic issues in Cuba.
How does the U.S. view the current regime in Cuba?
The U.S. views the Cuban regime as deteriorating, with significant challenges due to energy shortages and lack of resources, posing humanitarian concerns.
What role does Marco Rubio play in U.S.-Cuba negotiations?
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is a key figure in ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Cuba, focusing on reaching a humanitarian agreement.