Trump Floats “Friendly Takeover” of Cuba as Rubio Reportedly Engages in Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday suggested the possibility of a “friendly takeover” of Cuba, stating that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is handling discussions at a “very high level.” Speaking to reporters at the White House before departing for Texas, Trump described Cuba as a nation in severe economic distress and hinted that the island’s leadership may be seeking U.S. assistance.

“The Cuban government is talking with us, and they’re in a big deal of trouble,” Trump said. He pointed to Cuba’s worsening financial crisis, claiming the country lacks money, oil, and food. According to Trump, ongoing communication between Washington and Havana could potentially lead to significant political change.

However, Cuban officials have publicly denied participating in high-level negotiations with the United States. While Havana has rejected claims of formal talks, it has not fully dismissed reports suggesting informal contacts. Recent media coverage indicates that Rubio has allegedly held discreet discussions with Raul Guillermo Rodriguez Castro, grandson of former Cuban President Raul Castro. Additional reports claim U.S. officials met with him during a Caribbean Community conference in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Tensions between the United States and Cuba have intensified in recent days. Cuban authorities reportedly killed four exiles and injured six others after a Florida-registered speedboat entered Cuban waters and opened fire on a patrol vessel. Rubio denied any U.S. government involvement in the incident.

The situation unfolds amid escalating U.S. pressure on Cuba, including restrictions on oil shipments that have deepened the island’s economic hardship. The recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces also removed a key Cuban ally from power, further isolating Havana.

Trump emphasized the interests of Cuban Americans, particularly in Miami, many of whom have long opposed the Communist government established after Fidel Castro’s revolution. He suggested that closer U.S. involvement in Cuba could be “very positive” for those hoping to return to their homeland.