Trump Suggests Possible 'Friendly Takeover' of Crisis-Hit Cuba

U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States could pursue what he described as a possible “friendly takeover” of Cuba, pointing to the island nation’s worsening humanitarian crisis and economic crisis.

Speaking at a news conference in Doral, Florida, on March 9, Trump said Cuba was in “deep trouble” and facing severe shortages of energy and money. He added that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was managing discussions related to the situation and said the outcome “may be a friendly takeover,” though he added it “may not be,” indicating uncertainty about how events could develop.

Trump’s remarks come as Cuba faces one of its worst economic crises in decades. The country is dealing with fuel shortages, limited access to essential goods, and widespread power outages that have disrupted daily life and public services.

• Trump suggests possible “friendly takeover” of Cuba amid crisis
• US president says Cuba in deep trouble during economic collapse
• Washington hints at talks as pressure on Cuba intensifies

The situation has worsened amid increased pressure from Washington, including tighter U.S. sanctions on Cuba and an oil blockade that has restricted fuel shipments to the island. Cuba relies heavily on imported oil, particularly from Venezuela, and reduced supplies have further weakened the country’s already fragile economy.

Trump said the United States was engaged in discussions at a “very high level” regarding Cuba’s future, suggesting negotiations could influence the country’s political and economic direction. However, the Cuban government has denied that formal U.S.–Cuba negotiations are taking place, though reports indicate the possibility of informal contacts between U.S. officials and individuals connected to the Cuban leadership.

The suggestion of a U.S.-led “friendly takeover” has drawn attention among analysts and Cuban exile communities, particularly in Florida, where many have long supported political change in Cuba.

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Trump’s remarks highlight increasing U.S. pressure on Cuba as the crisis deepens, raising questions about whether diplomacy, economic pressure, or other measures could affect the island’s political future.