On Thursday, President Donald Trump expressed that he might resort to military force against Cuba if deemed necessary, with the aim of "ending Cuba" before his term concludes. He made these remarks during a phone interview with Hugh Hewitt from Salem News Channel, who inquired if Trump would consider a brief military operation lasting a week.
When asked about deploying "a bit of military force, a short campaign" against the island, Trump confidently replied, "I would certainly consider that, yes."
During the same discussion, Trump set forth a personal goal: "I want to end Cuba before I leave, and we have a very good, talented man for Cuba named Marco."
Trump was referencing Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whose parents migrated from Cuba, and whom he introduced as the pivotal figure in handling the situation: "Marco Rubio's parents are from Cuba, as you likely know, and he would love to do it."
The president described the island in harsh terms: "It is essentially a failed place, a failed nation, whatever you want to call it, it has failed." He added that his actions would be motivated by the Cuban people who came to the United States after being "treated very poorly": "I would love to do it for the people, for the Cubans who came and were treated very poorly and came to America."
Trump also claimed to have received 94% of the Cuban vote in Florida, although this figure lacks support from exit polls or independent electoral sources, asserting he is "more popular now" than before.
These statements mark the most direct rhetorical escalation by Trump regarding possible military action against Cuba during his second term, contrasting with earlier positions. In September, Trump ruled out military action, preferring to reach an agreement. In October, at a rally in Fort Myers, he proposed sending warships 50 yards off the Cuban coast after returning from the war with Iran, and then sending Rubio to "seal the deal."
Throughout 2026, the Trump administration has paired rhetorical pressure with a vigorous campaign of economic sanctions under Executive Order 14404, with over two dozen rounds targeting more than 40 entities and at least 38 individuals linked to the Cuban military-business apparatus. On November 5, the State Department announced measures against eight entities, two individuals, and blocked five vessels.
The Cuban regime, meanwhile, acknowledged its military disadvantage compared to the United States but stated it takes the possibility of an operation seriously, mobilizing its forces in response to increased pressure. Cuban UN representative Ernesto Soberón Guzmán condemned the statements made by U.S. officials about potential actions against the island.
Secretary Rubio, on the other hand, conditioned any progress on the Cuban regime abandoning its current path and adopting political and economic changes. Although Democrats won the midterm legislative elections on November 3, they will not assume control of Congress until January 3, 2027, leaving Trump with full executive freedom in the coming months.
On October 31, Trump had already vowed that "no Castro will be in power when I leave office," establishing a two-and-a-half-year timeline to resolve the Cuban issue.
Key Questions About Trump's Stance on Cuba
What did Trump say about using military force against Cuba?
Trump mentioned that he would consider a short military campaign against Cuba if necessary, with the intent of ending Cuba before his term ends.
Who is Marco Rubio in relation to Trump's plans for Cuba?
Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, is seen by Trump as a key figure in handling the Cuban issue. Rubio's parents emigrated from Cuba, and Trump believes he is well-suited for the task.
How has Trump's administration pressured Cuba?
The Trump administration has combined rhetorical pressure with economic sanctions, targeting over 40 entities and multiple individuals linked to the Cuban military-business complex.