President Donald Trump suggested that Cuba could become the next major focus of U.S. policy in the Western Hemisphere, saying it is entirely possible that the communist-run island could see developments similar to the administration’s recent efforts involving Venezuela.
Speaking in an interview with Axios, Trump was asked whether the White House might pursue a Cuba strategy resembling its approach toward Venezuela. The president responded by leaving the door wide open.
“Possibly. It’s possible,” Trump said.
Trump noted that both Cuba and Venezuela are located close to the United States, making them very different from overseas challenges such as Iran.
“These places are close by. Whereas if you look at Iran, that’s a very long trip,” Trump said.
“Venezuela is relatively close and Cuba is a hopscotch.”
The president also pointed to what he considers a significant difference between the two countries, emphasizing Venezuela’s vast oil reserves while noting Cuba lacks similar natural resources.
“Venezuela has oil. Cuba doesn’t,” he said.
“Cuba has a nice property and they have nice shoreline,” Trump said.
The remarks came as Trump indicated that Cuban officials are eager to improve ties with Washington and are seeking greater engagement with the United States.
“Cuba wants to talk very badly,” he said.
Trump added that Secretary of State Marco Rubio would likely take the lead in any future discussions between the two countries.
“We’re going to have Marco get involved,” Trump said.
Rubio, whose family fled Cuba after the communist revolution, has long been one of the administration’s strongest advocates for a tough stance toward both Havana and Caracas. He has consistently argued for maintaining pressure on the two governments while supporting opposition movements throughout the region.
While Trump declined to provide details about what a future Cuba initiative might look like, his comments signaled that the administration is increasingly viewing Cuba and Venezuela through the same strategic lens as it considers its next diplomatic and economic moves in the Western Hemisphere.
{Matzav.com}