Trump’s Bold Move: Cuba Now In the Crosshairs

Cuban and American flags placed on a wooden surface — TRUMP VS CUBA

A new U.S. policy intensifies pressure on Cuba, threatening its economic survival following Maduro’s ouster in Venezuela.

Story Highlights

U.S. captures Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, declaring control over Venezuela.
Trump warns Cuba of economic collapse without Venezuelan oil support.
32 Cuban personnel were killed during the U.S. operation in Venezuela.
Trump urges Cuba to negotiate a deal to avoid further destabilization.

U.S. Operation Ousts Maduro

In a bold military operation, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, who was subsequently jailed in New York. President Trump declared that the United States is now “in charge” of Venezuela, marking a significant shift in regional power dynamics. The operation led to the death of 32 Cuban personnel who were part of Maduro’s security detail, further straining U.S.-Cuban relations.

This military intervention has been described by Trump as an “incredible” success, positioning the U.S. as a central authority in Venezuela’s future. With Maduro out, interim President Delcy Rodríguez has been sworn in, though her administration faces heavy U.S. influence and supervision.

Trump tells Cuba to 'make a deal, before it is too late' https://t.co/zINhOUhhdu

— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) January 11, 2026

Cuba Faces Economic Isolation

In the wake of Maduro’s ouster, President Trump has issued a stark warning to Cuba, emphasizing that “there will be no more oil or money going to Cuba – zero!” This move is set to cripple Cuba’s economy, which has been heavily reliant on Venezuelan oil supplies. Trump’s assertion that “Cuba looks like it’s ready to fall” underscores the vulnerability of Havana’s regime without its primary energy lifeline.

Trump’s administration is leveraging this economic pressure to force Cuba into negotiations, urging them to “make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.” The loss of Venezuelan oil not only threatens Cuba’s energy security but also signifies a broader geopolitical strategy to weaken regimes allied with the former Venezuelan leadership.

Implications for U.S.-Cuba Relations

The death of Cuban personnel in the U.S. operation has heightened tensions, with Cuba denouncing the strikes as “terrorist acts.” This development marks a new chapter in U.S.-Cuba relations, moving from a historical standoff to direct economic and diplomatic confrontation. The U.S. strategy appears to be aimed at destabilizing the Cuban regime further, potentially paving the way for regime change.

As the situation unfolds, the U.S. continues to assert its influence over Venezuela, while Cuba grapples with the immediate fallout of losing its key ally. The broader implications for regional stability and U.S.-Latin America relations remain uncertain, as the balance of power shifts dramatically in the wake of these events.