Trump: US could ‘liberate’ Cuba as tensions rise

On Monday, US President Donald Trump sharply escalated his rhetoric towards Cuba, saying he believed he would have ‘the honour of taking over Cuba in some form’ or ‘liberating’ it, adding that he could ‘do whatever he wants’ with the island.

The remarks came despite ongoing talks between Washington and Havana aimed at improving bilateral relations.

According to US media reports, Washington has indicated during the discussions that one of its objectives is the departure of Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel from office.

The island is facing a severe fuel shortage after oil shipments from Venezuela were halted, while the United States has increased pressure on countries that might supply energy to Havana. The result has been widespread power outages and a deepening economic crisis.

The Cuban government has long rejected any interference in its internal affairs. President Miguel Díaz-Canel recently said that any negotiations with the United States must take place ‘on the principles of equality, sovereignty and mutual respect’.

(Reuters, EST)