President Donald Trump indicated Tuesday that the United States may be moving toward renewed engagement with Cuba, signaling that Secretary of State Marco Rubio would lead any negotiations with the island’s government. Rubio, whose family has Cuban roots, has already begun handling discussions related to the situation. When asked by reporters what the United States might gain from potential talks and why Americans should trust Rubio to negotiate them, Trump praised the secretary of state’s performance. The president said Rubio has been highly effective in his role and predicted he could become one of the most successful secretaries of state in U.S. history.
Trump also highlighted Rubio’s ability to speak Spanish, saying it could be helpful during negotiations. According to the president, Cuba is currently facing severe economic hardship and humanitarian challenges. He suggested the country may soon be forced to strike a deal with Washington, describing the possibility of a “friendly takeover,” though he noted that the process may not necessarily unfold that way.
The president pointed to the collapse of support from Venezuela—once a major supplier of oil and resources to Cuba—as a key factor weakening the Cuban government. Without that backing, Trump argued, the island nation is struggling to sustain itself. Speaking earlier at the “Shield of the Americas” summit in Doral, Florida, Trump said Cuba is nearing a turning point. He told regional leaders that the country is “at the end of the line” economically and politically, adding that negotiations with Rubio could lead to rapid change.
