WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has said the United States could move to take control of Cuba “almost immediately,” suggesting a strong show of military force as tensions between the two countries intensify.
Speaking at an event in Florida, Trump claimed that action against Cuba could follow US operations linked to the Iran conflict. “Cuba, which we will be taking over almost immediately,” he said, adding that the island nation was facing internal difficulties.
He indicated that a US aircraft carrier could be deployed near Cuban waters as a demonstration of strength. “On the way back from Iran, we’ll have one of our big, maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, the biggest in the world, we’ll have that come in, stop about 100 yards offshore,” Trump said.
He further suggested that such a move could compel surrender without conflict, stating: “They’ll say ‘thank you very much. We give up,’” and adding, “I like to finish a job.”
Alongside the remarks, the US administration announced an expansion of sanctions targeting Cuba’s government and affiliated entities.
Collective punishment
The measures are aimed at individuals and sectors linked to security operations, financial services and energy, with provisions that could also affect foreign companies engaging with Havana.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the move, describing the sanctions as “coercive” and part of a “brutal, genocidal” blockade. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla said the measures amount to “collective punishment on the Cuban people.”
Analysts say the latest steps mark a significant escalation in US pressure, as Washington seeks to isolate Cuba economically and politically.
The developments come amid ongoing economic strain on the island, including fuel shortages and power disruptions, as relations between the two countries remain deeply strained.
