Nigeria: US eyes Cuba as next target after Iran
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
US President Donald Trump hinted that Cuba could be the next focus of American foreign policy after the ongoing conflict with Iran is resolved. Speaking at a White House reception, Trump praised US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American, for his work on Cuba, saying, “You’ve been doing a fantastic job on a place called Cuba”.
The US has imposed an energy blockade on Cuba, exacerbating the island’s economic crisis. Cuba’s fuel stocks have plunged since the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a key oil supplier. No oil has been imported to Cuba since January 9, forcing airlines to curtail flights and deepening the economic crisis.
Trump’s comments suggest a possible shift in US policy towards Cuba, with regime change a likely goal. Both Trump and Rubio have openly advocated for removing the current Cuban government. The situation is sparking concerns about potential US intervention in Cuba, following attacks on Iran that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Cuba is already facing severe economic challenges, including widespread power outages, fuel shortages, and food scarcity. The US energy blockade has worsened these issues, with many Cubans turning to bicycles and solar panels to cope.
