Donald Trumpwarned that Cuba would resist any form of external aggression, even as the country faces a worsening fuel and economic crisis.
Díaz-Canel posted on X, “Faced with the worst-case scenario, Cuba has one guarantee: any external aggressor will encounter unbreakable resistance.”
His comments came against the backdrop of repeated threats from Trump, including a day earlier when he told reporters he could “occupy Cuba in some form” and claimed he could “do anything” to the country.
“I do believe I’m going to have the privilege of occupying Cuba,” Trump told reporters. When reporters asked for clarification, he added: “Yes, in some form.” “Occupy Cuba. I mean, whether I release it or not, occupy it — I think I can do whatever I want with it, if you want to know the truth.”
He also said the United States was already in contact with Cuba and hinted at possible action following ongoing actions related to Iran.
These statements are unusual in U.S.-Cuba relations. No U.S. president has publicly suggested taking control of the island since Fidel Castro came to power.
At the same time, the United States increased pressure on Cuba through economic means. Washington has effectively blocked oil shipments to the country since January by warning other countries not to supply fuel. A U.S. Coast Guard vessel also intercepted a tanker carrying crude oil to Cuba.
The impact on Cuba has been severe. The country has not received significant amounts of fuel since early January. This has led to rising black market fuel prices and frequent power outages. Recently, there were reports of a 29-hour nationwide power outage, with most parts of the capital, Havana, still without power.
This crisis is affecting daily life. Hospitals are postponing surgeries, medicines are running short and food shortages are growing across the island.
Facing mounting pressure, the Cuban government has begun talks with the United States and has hinted at possible economic reforms. Authorities have announced measures to allow Cubans living abroad to invest and do business in the country.
Reports also indicate that the United States wants to change Cuba’s leadership. Russia, meanwhile, said it was in close contact with Cuba and could provide support if needed.