U.S. President Donald Trump has said that Cuba could soon experience major political changes, claiming that the country’s government may “fall pretty soon.”
Trump made the remarks during a phone interview with journalist Dana Bash of CNN on Friday while discussing the achievements of his administration and current global issues.
According to the president, the Cuban government is now eager to negotiate with the United States after decades of strained diplomatic relations. He suggested that the island nation is ready to make a deal with Washington.
“Cuba is going to fall pretty soon,” Trump said during the interview. “They want to make a deal very badly.”
Trump also indicated that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio could play a key role in handling relations with Cuba if talks begin. Rubio, who is of Cuban descent and has long been vocal about policies toward the country, may be tasked with leading diplomatic efforts.
“I’m going to put Marco over there and we’ll see how that works out,” Trump said, suggesting Rubio could oversee negotiations or diplomatic engagement with the Cuban government.
However, the president explained that his administration is currently focused on other international matters, especially tensions involving Iran. Trump said the situation with Iran remains a top priority for the United States at the moment.
While speaking about Cuba, Trump noted that he has followed developments in the country for many years and believes recent events may create an opportunity for significant political change.
“I’ve been watching it for 50 years,” he said. “It’s fallen right into my lap.”
A day earlier, Trump also spoke about Cuba during an event at the White House. He suggested that it may only be a matter of time before Cuban Americans are able to return more freely to their homeland.
Trump praised Rubio’s performance as secretary of state and hinted that Cuba could become a major focus of the administration once other global conflicts are addressed.
The United States and Cuba have had a complicated and often tense relationship for more than half a century, marked by political disagreements, economic sanctions, and limited diplomatic engagement.
Trump’s comments suggest his administration may seek a new approach toward the Caribbean nation in the near future.
