US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also weighed in on Cuba, sharply criticising the country’s economic model. He described Cuba as a “disaster,” attributing its ongoing fuel shortages and economic struggles to systemic inefficiencies
Donald Trump. Pic/AFP
US President Donald Trump has triggered fresh geopolitical debate after stating that “Cuba’s next” while speaking at the Future Investment Initiative in Washington DC. The remark came in the context of his comments on recent US strikes on Iran, raising concerns about a potential escalation in US foreign policy rhetoric.
While addressing the audience, Trump made the statement in a seemingly offhand manner, adding, “But pretend I didn’t say that,” even as the comment quickly drew international attention.
Rubio criticises Cuba’s economic system
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also weighed in on Cuba, sharply criticising the country’s economic model. He described Cuba as a “disaster,” attributing its ongoing fuel shortages and economic struggles to systemic inefficiencies.
SECRETARY RUBIO: The reason why Cuba doesn’t have oil or fuel is because they want it for free. Cuba is a disaster because their economic system doesn't work. pic.twitter.com/4jl0IkRpJM
— Department of State (@StateDept) March 27, 2026
Rubio further stated that Cuba’s lack of oil and fuel stems from its dependence on external support, arguing that its economic structure has failed to deliver sustainable outcomes.
WHO raises concerns over healthcare crisis
Amid escalating rhetoric, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, expressed serious concerns about the situation in Cuba, particularly its healthcare system.
He emphasised that healthcare services should not be affected by geopolitical tensions, energy shortages, or blockades. Ghebreyesus highlighted that Cuba is currently facing significant challenges in maintaining health service delivery due to ongoing power outages and fuel constraints.
Humanitarian aid reaches Cuba amid crisis
The situation in Cuba has drawn international humanitarian attention, with aid beginning to reach the island nation. A vessel carrying essential supplies — including food, medicines, solar panels, and bicycles — recently arrived in Havana as part of a broader humanitarian effort.
The aid convoy, named “Nuestra America,” departed from Mexico and includes multiple vessels aimed at supporting Cuba during its ongoing economic and energy crisis.
Rising tensions and calls for regime change
The developments come against the backdrop of continued calls from sections of US leadership for political change in Cuba. Trump and his allies have previously indicated support for stronger measures, including tighter energy restrictions, to pressure the Cuban government.
Health should be protected at all costs and never be at the mercies of geopolitics, energy blockades and power outages.
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) March 25, 2026
The situation in #Cuba is deeply concerning as the country struggles to maintain health service delivery at a time of immense turbulence, leading to energy… pic.twitter.com/DF9uENDjjo
Reports suggest that such measures have contributed to worsening economic conditions and energy shortages on the island, intensifying the humanitarian situation.
As geopolitical tensions evolve, Trump’s remarks are likely to add to global scrutiny over US foreign policy direction, particularly in relation to Latin America and existing international crises.
(With inputs from ANI)
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