In a striking message posted on Truth Social, President Donald Trump sent a clear warning to Cuba regarding its reliance on Venezuelan oil. His statement emphasized a significant shift in the relationship between the two nations, specifically in light of the recent U.S. actions against Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro.
Trump stated, “Cuba lived, for many years, on large amounts of OIL and MONEY from Venezuela,” underscoring a history of interdependence that has now been disrupted. He claimed that the U.S. has effectively cut off Cuba’s oil supply by targeting the Maduro regime, leading to dire consequences for the Cuban government. According to Trump, “Most of those Cubans are DEAD from last weeks U.S.A. attack,” alluding to the casualties incurred during a military raid. This statement highlights the stakes involved and adds urgency to his call for Cuba to engage with the U.S. before it’s “too late.”
The crux of Trump’s message lies in his prediction of Cuban vulnerabilities without Venezuelan support. He asserted, “THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA – ZERO!” This proclamation paints a picture of a Cuba on the brink, urging the island to negotiate terms with the U.S. or face isolation.
Interestingly, Trump’s comments regarding Marco Rubio hinted at political maneuverings. He quipped that “Marco Rubio will be President of Cuba,” suggesting that the Florida senator, whose parents fled the Castro regime, could play a crucial role in U.S.-Cuban relations moving forward. Such remarks reflect the intertwining of personal and political outcomes in U.S. foreign policy.
In contrast, President Miguel Díaz-Canel of Cuba responded with defiance. He characterized Trump’s call for negotiation as an overreach, stating, “Cuba is a free, independent and sovereign nation.” His assertive stance indicates that Cuba is prepared to resist external pressures, committed to defending its sovereignty with “the last drop of blood.” This rhetoric illustrates the ongoing tension between Cuba and the U.S., echoing sentiments that have defined their relationship for decades.
Energy expert Jorge Piñón weighed in on Cuba’s precarious situation. He noted that Cuba has depended on Venezuela for 30,000 to 35,000 barrels of oil a day, while its total consumption reaches about 100,000 barrels daily. With this supply chain at risk, the stakes for Cuba are high.
Rubio’s earlier remarks further complicated this dynamic. After the U.S. raid, he suggested that the Cuban government ought to reassess its behavior in light of recent events. His insight reflects an understanding that the geopolitical landscape is shifting and could influence Cuba’s future actions.
Ultimately, the political drama surrounding Cuba, Venezuela, and the United States continues to unfold, revealing deep-seated tensions and the fragility of alliances. The stakes remain high as leaders navigate their national interests amid threats and calls for negotiation, leaving many to speculate what the future holds for the island nation.
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