Trump sets his sights on crisis-hit Cuba after Iran action
Trump sets his sights on crisis-hit Cuba after Iran action
Cuba faced another 24-hour nationwide blackout, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump to suggest the nation is now a priority for his administration. During a meeting with the Inter Miami soccer team, Trump addressed Cuban-born billionaire Jorge Mas, who owns the club, stating that the island would soon experience significant changes. “It’s just a question of time” before progress is made, Trump remarked, implying that Cuba’s leadership is eager to negotiate. Mas responded with optimism, noting the Cuban authorities’ eagerness to reach an agreement.
“Cuba is gonna fall pretty soon,” Trump said to CNN on Friday, highlighting the administration’s determination to maintain pressure on the country. He mentioned that the current focus is on Iran, but emphasized that the situation in Cuba is ripe for intervention. “We’ve got plenty of time,” he added, “and Cuba’s ready—after 50 years.”
Fuel shortages and public hardship
The crisis extends beyond electricity, with Cuba’s energy infrastructure struggling under the weight of dwindling resources. With limited access to crude oil due to sanctions, the nation’s thermo-energy plants cannot meet domestic demands. This has led to widespread disruptions, including garbage piles piling up in streets and residents burning waste to manage the situation. In Havana, even affluent neighborhoods have resorted to cooking with firewood during blackouts.
Transportation and power generation are also suffering. Few Cubans have solar panels or alternative energy sources, leaving them reliant on the aging Soviet-era grid. The scarcity of fuel has even impacted air travel, as airlines like Air France suspend flights to the island. While the cool weather provides some relief, many are concerned about the summer heat without air conditioning or fans.
Strategic pressure and skepticism
Trump and his officials have stressed the importance of continued pressure on Cuba, believing it will weaken the leadership’s position. However, critics argue that ordinary Cubans bear the brunt of the policy, raising questions about its effectiveness. The Cuban government has not officially confirmed talks with the Trump administration, but Raúl Guillermo RodrÃguez Castro, the grandson of former leader Raúl Castro, is reportedly acting as the point of contact.
Despite some limited private sector fuel imports, these measures are seen as insufficient to address the nation’s broader needs. Cubans remain doubtful about the impact of these steps, as they only partially offset the crisis. The administration’s strategy appears to hinge on sustained economic strain, hoping to spark internal unrest or force concessions from the government.
