Trump Imposes New Comprehensive Sanctions, Says U.S. Military Will Take Over Cuba on Way Back from Iran
According to Reuters, two White House officials revealed that U.S. President Trump signed an executive order on Friday, expanding the scope of American sanctions against the Cuban government. The two officials stated that the new measures target individuals, entities, and affiliated organizations supporting Cuba’s security apparatus or involved in corruption or serious human rights violations, as well as agents, officials, or supporters of the Cuban government. It remains unclear who exactly is currently under sanctions as a result of this executive order.
Notably, during a speech at an event on Friday, Trump appeared to hint at a potential military action against Cuba after U.S. forces “complete” their mission in Iran. Trump made these remarks as the keynote speaker at an event hosted by the non-profit Palm Beach Forum Club. He declared, “We will take over Cuba almost immediately,” sparking concern that the U.S. might again become entangled in another military conflict this year.
In his speech, Trump said: “Cuba is now in trouble. We’ll deal with one thing at a time. I like to finish what I start. On our way back from Iran… On our way back from Iran, we’ll send one of our large aircraft carriers—maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln, the largest carrier in the world—ashore. It’ll dock about 100 yards off the coast, then they’ll say: [Thank you very much. We surrender.]” The audience erupted in laughter as Trump made these remarks.
For months, Trump has hinted at the possibility of military action against Cuba. This follows a shocking intervention by U.S. special forces in January, when they crossed borders to apprehend Venezuelan President Maduro. Since then, U.S. government officials have intensified criticism and pressure on Havana.
Lately, Cuba has been suffering from severe fuel shortages, leading to widespread shutdowns across many industries and the collapse of national healthcare services. The United Nations has repeatedly warned that due to the U.S. oil embargo, Cuba is experiencing a humanitarian crisis.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla condemned the latest U.S. sanctions on Friday, calling them a form of "collective punishment." In a post on X, Rodríguez stated, “We firmly oppose the recent unilateral coercive measures taken by the U.S. government. These actions demonstrate their intent to impose collective punishment on the Cuban people once again.”
For months, the White House has urged leaders of the Cuban regime to engage in dialogue with Washington, warning them they must “act now before it’s too late.” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has repeatedly refused to negotiate under what he calls hostile conditions, stating that Havana would only enter talks based on mutual respect, equality, and without threats to its sovereignty or territorial integrity.
Source: rfi
Original: toutiao.com/article/1864086192920576/
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