During a recent interview on The Axios Show, President Donald Trump emphasized a significant strategic difference between Cuba and Venezuela. When questioned about potentially applying the same approach to Cuba as was used against Nicolás Maduro's government, Trump responded with clarity.
"Venezuela has oil, Cuba does not. Cuba has good properties and a beautiful coastline," he remarked, according to a clip shared by Clash Report on social media.
The distinction pointed out by Trump is crucial. In Venezuela, oil has been the main leverage point, whereas Cuba has faced financial isolation, sanctions, and a cut in energy supplies that traditionally came from Caracas.
In the same conversation, Trump claimed to have "defeated Venezuela 100%" and drew parallels with operations against Iran, noting that the Iranian action was "much larger and more powerful from a weaponry standpoint."
When asked how a potential operation in Cuba could resemble Venezuela's more than Iran's, Trump did not rule out any possibilities.
He also highlighted Cuba's close geographical proximity, noting that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is "heavily involved" in Washington's plans regarding the island.
These statements come amid intense pressure from the Trump administration on Cuba. Since January 2025, more than 240 sanctions have been imposed on the island, and it has been re-listed as a state sponsor of terrorism.
On June 11, Rubio announced sanctions against CUPET, Cuba's state-owned oil company, freezing its assets under US jurisdiction.
Just days earlier, the Trump administration blocked a shipment of 250,000 barrels of fuel to Cuba, citing that Vanguard Energy lacked the necessary US license for the transaction.
The US campaign against Venezuela, known as Operation Southern Spear, included increased military presence in the Caribbean and actions against the Venezuelan oil fleet. Trump suggested Cuba might face similar pressure but acknowledged that the lack of oil necessitates a different strategy.
Understanding US Policies Towards Cuba and Venezuela
What is the main difference in US strategy between Cuba and Venezuela?
The primary difference is that the US uses oil as leverage against Venezuela, while Cuba faces financial isolation and sanctions without the oil element.
Why has the US imposed sanctions on CUPET?
The sanctions against CUPET are part of broader US efforts to pressure Cuba by targeting its energy sector and economic resources.
How has the Trump administration increased pressure on Cuba?
Since January 2025, the Trump administration has imposed over 240 sanctions on Cuba and has included the island on the list of state sponsors of terrorism.