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In an address from the Oval Office earlier today, the US president expressed his thoughts on Cuba, stating that he envisions having “the honor of taking Cuba.” This remark has sparked considerable attention and speculation regarding the president’s intentions.
“It’s a significant honor,” he remarked, adding, “Taking Cuba in some form.” His comments left room for interpretation, as he mentioned, “Whether I free it, take it… I believe I can do anything I want with it, to tell you the truth.”
The president did not provide details on whether his plans might involve military intervention, including the deployment of ground troops. This lack of specificity has raised questions about the administration’s strategy concerning the island nation.
He further commented on Cuba’s current situation, saying, “They’re a very weakened nation right now.” These statements have led to discussions about the potential implications for US-Cuban relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.
“They’re a very weakened nation right now,” Trump said.
“They were for a long time very violent, very violent leaders. (Fidel) Castro was a very violent leader.”
His comments come as the New York Times reports the White House is actively seeking to push Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel from office.
The newspaper reported the Trump administration would not seek wholesale change to the Caribbean country’s government.
“Cuba, in its own way – tourism and everything else – it’s a beautiful island, great weather,” he said.
“They’re not in a hurricane zone, which is nice for a change, you know?Â
“They won’t be asking us for money for hurricanes every week.”
The country is now in a near-total electrical blackout as a consequence of a US oil blockade.
“They want to make a deal, and so I’m going to put Marco [Rubio] over there and we’ll see how that works out,” he said.
“We’re really focused on this one right now.”
Rubio, the US Secretary of State, is the son of Cuban migrants.
The United States previously occupied Cuba between 1898 and 1902 following the Spanish-American War, and again from 1906 to 1909.
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