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US President Donald Trump said Friday that “Cuba is next,” in his latest threat against the Caribbean island as he dismissed concerns that recent U.S. military actions could affect his political support.
Trump has increased pressure on Cuba’s government, including a de facto oil blockade imposed in January.
He has also previously suggested the U.S. might consider taking control of the country.
Speaking at the Saudi-backed FII Priority investment forum in Miami, Trump cited U.S. military operations in Venezuela earlier this year, saying, “I built this great military. I said, “You’ll never have to use it,” but sometimes you have to use it.”
He added, “And Cuba is next, by the way. But pretend I didn’t say that” without providing further details.
Trump later told the media to “disregard that statement,” but repeated “Cuba’s next” during his speech, which drew laughter from the audience.
He also made a comment referring to the Strait of Hormuz as the “Strait of Trump.”
Cuban President Miguel Díaz‑Canel said last week that any external aggression would meet “unbreakable resistance,” as Cuba experienced two nationwide power outages within a week.
The United States has maintained a trade embargo on Cuba since shortly after the 1959 Cuban Revolution.
Relations briefly improved in recent years but have deteriorated under Trump’s second term, as his administration has sought to increase pressure on the Cuban government.
A top Cuban diplomat stated that Havana is willing to continue diplomatic talks with Washington but will not discuss changes to its political system.
Two sailboats that were part of an international convoy delivering medical supplies, food, and other goods to Cuba were reported missing on Friday and remained unaccounted for.
