President Donald Trump raised the possibility Friday that the United States might pursue what he termed a “friendly takeover” of Cuba, following a deadly confrontation between the communist nation’s Coast Guard and occupants of a Florida-registered vessel that left four people dead.
The incident occurred Wednesday in waters the Cuban government claims as territorial. According to Cuban authorities, their Coast Guard approached what they described as a “violating speedboat” for identification purposes when the vessel’s crew opened fire, injuring the commander of the Cuban patrol boat. The boat carried American citizens, though the exact number remains unclear.
“The Cuban government is talking with us, and they are in a great deal of trouble, as you know,” the president told reporters Friday. “They have no money, they have nothing right now, but they are talking with us, and perhaps we will have a friendly takeover of Cuba.”
The president noted that the island nation, located merely 90 miles south of Florida, faces severe difficulties. “You know, we have people living here that want to go back to Cuba, and they are very happy with what is happening,” he continued.
Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior issued a statement defending its actions and asserting its right to protect territorial waters. “In the face of current challenges, Cuba reaffirms its determination to protect its territorial waters, based on the principle that national defense is a fundamental pillar of the Cuban State in safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring stability in the region,” the ministry declared, adding that investigations into the incident would proceed.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez responded Thursday, insisting his nation “does not attack, nor threaten.” He added that Cuba would “defend itself with determination and firmness against any terrorist and mercenary aggression that seeks to affect its sovereignty and national stability.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio made clear this week that the United States would conduct its own investigation. “We have every reason to want our own information,” Rubio stated. “We do not make decisions in the United States on the basis of what the Cuban authorities are saying.”
The confrontation occurs as Cuba struggles through a severe energy crisis that has crippled the island’s infrastructure and economy. The communist government has faced mounting challenges maintaining basic services for its population.
The Trump administration has demonstrated willingness to employ American military power throughout the Western Hemisphere. Most notably, United States forces captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro in January, bringing him to face narco-terrorism charges on American soil.
Whether the president’s comments represent serious policy consideration or diplomatic pressure remains to be seen. What is certain is that tensions between Washington and Havana have reached their highest point in years, with this maritime incident serving as a potential flashpoint for broader confrontation.
The situation continues to develop as both nations investigate the circumstances surrounding Wednesday’s deadly encounter.
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