Florida Republican Senator Rick Scott has openly declared Cuba's regime as the "root of instability in Latin America" and a direct threat to U.S. national security. This statement was made during an interview with journalist Karina Yapor for VOZ News.
The interview took place shortly after Axios reported, citing U.S. intelligence, that Miguel Díaz-Canel's government allegedly acquired over 300 military drones from Russia and Iran since 2023. These drones possess offensive, reconnaissance, and surveillance capabilities.
The report suggested that Cuban officials have considered using this arsenal against the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, U.S. military vessels, and areas near Key West, Florida. However, intelligence sources clarified that an attack is not considered imminent.
When questioned by Yapor about the severity of this threat—Cuba being only 90 miles from the U.S. mainland—Scott was unequivocal: "Cuba is the root of instability in Latin America, and it is detrimental to U.S. national security. Thanks to President Trump for his stance against the Cuban regime.
Scott emphasized the importance of advocating for freedom and democracy in Cuba, stating, "Raúl Castro and Díaz-Canel need pressure from the United States. The struggle is important every day. There’s no money, no oil for the Cuban regime today. I will support the Cuban people in their fight for freedom and democracy."
Scott's remarks are part of a consistent increase in pressure from the Trump administration against Havana.
Since January 2026, the United States has implemented over 240 new sanctions against Cuba, reinstated the island on the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, and issued Executive Order 14380, declaring a national emergency concerning Cuba.
On May 6, Washington sanctioned GAESA and its president, giving foreign companies until June 5 to cease operations with the Cuban military conglomerate.
The island's fuel imports have reportedly dropped by 80% to 90%, resulting in power outages lasting up to 25 hours a day in some areas.
Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar also called the alleged drone purchase a "direct threat" to U.S. national security, joining other Florida Republicans in demanding a strong response.
During the interview, Scott also touched on Colombia's democratic crisis, where two aides of conservative candidate Abelardo de la Espriella were killed on May 15 in Cubarral, Meta.
The senator did not mince words about Colombian President Gustavo Petro: "He is a very bad person. He reminds me of M-19. He is a cartel assistant, a friend of Maduro."
Concerning Mexico, Scott warned that if the government of Claudia Sheinbaum fails to act against the cartels, the United States will take unilateral action: "If the Mexican government does not do their job to prevent the cartels from killing Americans, we will have to do it ourselves."
Scott remains a vocal advocate for aggressive measures against Cuba.
In April 2026, he urged Trump to toughen sanctions against GAESA, arguing that the conglomerate controls over $18 billion in liquid assets. In February 2025, he reintroduced the DEMOCRACIA Act alongside Senator Tommy Tuberville to block assets and intensify sanctions against Cuba's military and intelligence apparatus.
The deadline set by Washington for foreign companies to end their dealings with GAESA is June 5, marking a key moment in Trump's maximum pressure policy against Havana.
Understanding U.S. Policy Toward Cuba
What did Rick Scott say about the Cuban regime?
Rick Scott labeled the Cuban regime as the "root of instability in Latin America" and a direct threat to U.S. national security.
How has the U.S. responded to the Cuban regime under the Trump administration?
The U.S. has imposed over 240 new sanctions on Cuba, reinstated the island on the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, and declared a national emergency concerning Cuba.
What actions did Scott suggest regarding Mexico's handling of cartels?
Scott warned that if the Mexican government does not take action against the cartels, the U.S. will act unilaterally to address the issue.