Washington, May 22: President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have intensified pressure on Cuba, labeling it a “failed state” and a threat to U.S. national security.
Speaking separately in Florida and at the White House, both leaders hinted at a tougher stance towards Havana while keeping the door open for potential dialogue.
During a press conference related to regulatory changes in the Oval Office, Trump expressed a desire to help the Cuban people and Cuban Americans reconnect with their homeland.
“Cuba is a failed state. Everyone knows it. There is no electricity. People have no money. They even lack food,” Trump stated.
He added, “We will help them. First and foremost, I want to assist them out of humanity. Cuban Americans living in Florida want to invest in Cuba and rebuild their country. They want to return and help their homeland. I hope they stay here, but they want to assist their country.”
Trump noted that previous presidents have contemplated this issue for the past 50-60 years, but he believes he can make it happen.
Hours earlier, Rubio made a strong statement while speaking to reporters at Miami Homestead Airport before departing for India.
Rubio asserted that Cuba has consistently posed a threat to U.S. national security. “Having a failed state just 90 miles from our coast, run by friends of our adversaries, is a significant risk,” he said. He claimed that Russian and Chinese intelligence presence exists in Cuba, along with weapon systems from both countries.
Rubio also accused Havana of supporting groups that spread instability throughout Latin America. He stated that Cuba has been at the forefront of promoting terrorism across the region.
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller echoed the administration’s concerns, warning that Cuba could become a base for America’s enemies, dangerously close to U.S. borders.
Miller cautioned that any enemy could send drones from Cuba to attack, easily reaching American territory. “We cannot allow a base for enemies, adversaries, or terrorists to be so close to us,” he said.
Rubio mentioned that the U.S. is prepared to provide humanitarian aid to Cuba, but only through independent groups, not organizations linked to the Cuban military.
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