UPDATE: In a stunning announcement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has not ruled out military action against Cuba following a surprise airstrike on Venezuela that led to the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro. Speaking on January 4, 2026, during an interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Rubio stressed that the Cuban government is facing serious challenges.
The intense rhetoric comes on the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump‘s warning to Latin American leaders, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, to “watch his ass,” amid rising tensions in the region. Trump has hinted at possible military involvement not only in Venezuela but also in countries like Cuba and Mexico.
Rubio, a Cuban American and vocal critic of the Cuban regime, stated, “The Cuban government is a huge problem. I think they’re in a lot of trouble, yes.” When pressed by host Kristin Welker about whether Cuba is the next target, he declined to provide specific details but made it clear that the U.S. administration is seriously evaluating its options.
In a previous statement, Trump labeled Cuba as a “failing nation” and expressed a desire to assist its people, saying, “Cuba is a disaster. If I lived in Havana and I was in the government I’d be concerned.” He further indicated that military intervention could be a topic of discussion in future dialogues.
The implications of these statements are significant, raising fears about escalating military actions in the Caribbean. As tensions mount, analysts warn that any U.S. military strike could destabilize the region further and impact the lives of countless civilians.
As this situation develops, observers are urged to monitor official statements and updates from the White House regarding potential military strategies. The international community is closely watching the unfolding events, and the stakes could not be higher for all involved.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this rapidly evolving story.
