United States President Donald Trump has declared that “Cuba is next” in a fresh escalation of rhetoric against the Caribbean nation, while rejecting claims that his recent military posture could erode support among his political base.
Trump made the remarks during a speech at the Saudi-backed FII Priority investment forum in Miami, where he emphasised the need for strength and victory within his “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement.
“I built this great military. I said, ‘You’ll never have to use it,’ but sometimes you have to use it,” Trump said. “And Cuba is next, by the way. But pretend I didn’t say that.”
The president, however, did not outline any specific plan regarding Cuba and appeared to downplay the statement, asking the media to “disregard that statement” before repeating “Cuba is next” to laughter from the audience.
Trump also dismissed concerns that recent U.S. military actions—including operations linked to Venezuela—could weaken his support base, insisting that his followers favour decisive leadership and outcomes.
His latest comments come amid mounting pressure on Cuba, where Washington has already imposed a de facto oil blockade and previously suggested the possibility of “taking” the country.
Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel had earlier warned that any external aggression would be met with “unbreakable resistance,” even as the island grapples with economic challenges and recent nationwide power outages.
Trump’s remarks further underscore rising tensions between both countries, as the U.S. continues to apply economic and political pressure on Havana amid an ongoing crisis fuelled by energy shortages and strained diplomatic relations.
