According to the report, the United States is deliberately looking for people from the circles of the Cuban authorities who would be willing to reach an agreement with Washington and put an end to the communist regime.
The Trump administration assumes that Cuba's economy is on the verge of collapse. After losing its most important ally, Maduro, the Cuban leadership is weaker than ever before. Senior U.S. officials see Maduro's arrest as a role model — and a warning to Havana. However, the White House does not have a specific plan to overthrow the government that has been in power for almost 70 years, which creates a number of threats.
Havana reacts defiantly. “The current emperor of the White House and his infamous secretary of state continue to threaten us,” Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said, referring to Donald Trump and top U.S. diplomat Marco Rubio.
The Caribbean country says it will defend itself if the United States decides to attack. “Imperialist overlords: we have absolutely no fear of you,” Diaz-Canel said. Earlier, Cuba's minister of border affairs spoke of a “criminal hegemon.” Last week in Havana, thousands of Cubans demonstrated against US policy in the Caribbean.
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Trump threatens an oil embargo
US President Donald Trump toughened his tone towards the Caribbean island of Cuba just days after the US military intervention in Venezuela. On his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote in all caps: “There will be NO MORE OIL AND MONEY FOR CUB — ZERO! I recommend reaching an agreement BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE.” Trump did not explain what exactly he meant by “agreement.”
In early January, the US army intervened in Venezuela. Nicolas Maduro, the head of state, was captured and taken out of the country to New York. Cuba is Venezuela's closest ally in the region and urgently needs Venezuelan oil. Trump is threatening to end these essential supplies.
Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores captured by the US, January 5, 2026.XNY/Star Max/GC Images/Contributor/Getty Images
“Cuba has lived for many years on large amounts of oil and money from Venezuela,” Trump said. In return, Cuba provided “security services” to Venezuela's last two dictators. “BUT IT'S OVER!” – thunders the president of the United States.
Cuba is already struggling with its worst economic crisis since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since the end of 2024, there have been five nationwide power outages, lasting up to several days. In addition, there are almost daily power outages lasting many hours.
Difficult situation in Cuba
As Newsweek writes, Cuba is experiencing the most severe economic, social and humanitarian crisis since the victory of the revolution. To make matters worse, in recent months a dangerous disease has spread in all 15 provinces of the country, deepening the ongoing crisis. The chikunguna virus epidemic is taking its toll on residents deprived of food, medicine, clean water and fuel. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes.
Despite the difficult situation, the authorities do not intend to lay down their weapons in the event of an open armed conflict. According to pro-government media, the Cuban authorities have already approved a plan of action if a state of war is declared.
In the event of extreme destabilization, Cuba could plunge into a crisis that has brought another Caribbean country to its knees. In Haiti, as a result of the earthquake, long-term economic collapse and gang wars, the government practically lost control over the country. The government is trying with all its strength to prevent total anarchy.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
