U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed Latin American leaders in Spanish during the Americas Shield Summit held this Saturday. Speaking directly to the presidents in attendance, Rubio expressed gratitude for their presence and emphasized the significance of their cooperation.
"I want to thank the countries represented here today. The president has made this region a priority for his administration. Unlike many who have promised this, he has truly delivered," Rubio stated in Spanish to the delegates from 12 key Latin American nations closely allied with Washington.
He continued, "These countries are not just allies; they are friends. They consistently respond when needed and work collaboratively with us. There is much more to be done. These nations have vast populations and potential, and we aspire to be partners in developing their countries, economies, and security."
Rubio concluded by expressing his appreciation: "Thank you sincerely for being here with us. May God bless all your countries, the United States, and thank you, as always, for your cooperation. Together, we will continue to make significant strides for this region. Future generations will appreciate the work we are doing."
Earlier, speaking in English, Rubio highlighted that Trump is a president of action. "I believe he will go down in history as one of the most influential figures in U.S. history, particularly in the last century, due to his accomplishments and his current focus on the Western Hemisphere," he explained.
Rubio emphasized the critical nature of the current moment for the hemisphere, noting that the challenges faced—organized crime, drug trafficking, migration pressures, and hostile regimes' influence—necessitate cooperation among all nations. "This summit is precisely about that," he concluded.
Among the leaders present were Javier Milei (Argentina), Nayib Bukele (El Salvador), Daniel Noboa (Ecuador), Santiago Peña (Paraguay), Luis Abinader (Dominican Republic), José Raúl Mulino (Panama), Rodrigo Chaves (Costa Rica), and Nasry Asfura (Honduras), as well as representatives from Trinidad and Tobago and Bolivia. José Antonio Kast, the president-elect of Chile, also attended, set to take office on March 11th.
The summit aims to establish a regional coalition combating drug trafficking, cartels, illegal migration, and transnational organized crime.
Rubio's Role in Cuba Negotiations
During the summit, Trump remarked that Cuba is interested in negotiations and, partly due to Rubio's efforts, a deal with Havana could be easily reached. "They want to negotiate. They are negotiating with Marco, myself, and others. I believe a deal with Cuba could be achieved very easily," Trump stated.
Trump added, "Cuba is in its final moments as it currently exists. It will have a new, significant life, but it's in its last stages as we know it."
In a light-hearted moment, Trump joked about Rubio's involvement in the negotiations. "What are you going to do, Marco? Take a couple of days off? No, you won't. Maybe an hour. He'll take an hour off and then finalize a deal with Cuba. That one is easy. But what we're doing affects the entire region," Trump said.
He continued, "Many of you have approached me today saying, 'We hope you can handle Cuba, as you've had issues with Cuba.' Four of you even asked, 'Could you do us a favor and take care of Cuba?' I'll handle it, alright," he concluded.
Trump further commented that the island nation is at the end of its rope, lacking both money and oil, attributing this to a "bad philosophy" and a "bad regime" that has persisted for too long. "They used to get money from Venezuela. They used to get oil from Venezuela. But now they have neither money nor oil from Venezuela," he explained.
Additionally, Trump noted that Cuba lacks sufficient fuel for air operations. "When people land in Cuba, they can't even get fuel to take off again. They have to leave their planes there," he asserted.
Trump reiterated that the Cuban system is in its final phase and a transformation is on the horizon.
Key Insights on U.S.-Latin America Relations
What is the main focus of the Americas Shield Summit?
The summit aims to establish a regional coalition to combat drug trafficking, cartels, illegal migration, and transnational organized crime.
What role does Marco Rubio play in U.S.-Cuba relations?
Marco Rubio plays a crucial role in negotiations with Cuba, working towards a potential agreement alongside Trump and other officials.
Why is the current moment considered critical for the Western Hemisphere?
The hemisphere faces significant challenges, including organized crime, drug trafficking, migration pressures, and the influence of hostile regimes, which require collective cooperation.