Trump Eyes Cuba as Next Target With 'Friendly Takeover' Plan Amid Intensified Oil Blockade

President Trump publicly raised the possibility of a “friendly takeover” of Cuba, suggesting the island’s government is in serious trouble and might be open to some form of US involvement or influence. He made the comments while speaking to reporters, claiming that Cuba “has no money, no oil, no food” and indicating that high-level discussions with Cuban officials could lead to a favourable outcome — although he did not clearly define what a “friendly takeover” would entail.

Trump said that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is leading talks “at a very high level” and that the Cuban government is “talking with us” about its future, though Havana has publicly denied formal high‑level negotiations with Washington. The remarks reflect a shift in rhetoric toward a more assertive US approach aimed at encouraging change in Cuba’s governance.

The backdrop to Trump’s comments is a deepening economic crisis in Cuba, partly driven by a near-complete halt of subsidised oil shipments from Venezuela after the U.S. capture of its leader, Nicolás Maduro. The Cuban economy has been squeezed further by U.S. pressure, including an effective embargo on fuel supplies and threats of tariffs on countries helping Havana, pushing the already fragile island toward widespread shortages and hardship.

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Trump suggested that a shift in Cuba’s situation could be “very positive” for the large Cuban exile community in the United States, particularly those concentrated in Florida who have long supported regime change in Havana. However, the president did not clarify whether the “friendly takeover” would involve formal annexation, regime change, economic integration, or some other form of influence.

Cuban officials, including President Miguel Díaz‑Canel, have rejected interference in their internal affairs, insisting that any talks must respect Cuba’s sovereignty and self‑determination. The island’s leadership has also condemned the worsening economic blockade and stressed that external pressure should not be misinterpreted as consent to foreign control or takeover.

Overall, Trump’s remarks mark a significant escalation in US–Cuba tensions, blending diplomatic messaging with economic leverage. The term “friendly takeover” remains vague, but the shift highlights Washington’s willingness to explore more forceful strategies — short of outright military invasion — to encourage political and economic transformation in Cuba.

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