Trump Issues Stark Warning to Cuba, Backs Marco Rubio as Potential President

Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has once again made a controversial statement, issuing a strong warning to Cuba while expressing support for the idea of making his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, the President of Cuba.

Trump’s remarks signal heightened tensions, as he warned Cuba to finalize deals promptly or face consequences. His statement is part of a broader pattern of aggressive rhetoric directed at multiple countries. Recently, the U.S. carried out an operation in Venezuela, and Trump has also spoken about potential actions against Iran and Greenland.

In his warning, Trump emphasized that any delay in reaching an agreement would be detrimental to Cuba. He further stated that the flow of oil and funds from Venezuela to Cuba—historically a key ally—would now be halted. On 3 January, the U.S. reportedly took military action in Venezuela, detaining its leader. Trump’s comments underline Washington’s intent to assert control over Venezuela and pressure Cuba economically and politically.

Trump posted on Truth Social: “For many years, Cuba survived on the oil and money received from Venezuela. In return, Cuba provided security services to the previous Venezuelan regimes. Now, that support will end. I advise them to finalize the deal before it’s too late.”

Cuba has not responded to Trump’s latest threats. Earlier, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel had announced that 32 brave Cuban fighters killed in Venezuela would be honored in ceremonial uniforms for confronting terrorists. Cuban commandos have long been deployed to protect the Venezuelan President.

Support for Marco Rubio in Cuba
Adding to the controversy, Trump suggested that Marco Rubio be made the President of Cuba. In a comment on social media, he wrote, “I like the idea of Marco Rubio becoming Cuba’s President.” This unprecedented suggestion—effectively proposing that a U.S. minister assume leadership of another nation—has sparked widespread debate and criticism.