Trump Says Cuba Is Ready To Fall As Díaz-Canel Faces Economic Freefall

Under Díaz-Canel, Cuba has struggled to maintain even basic economic stability. The regime’s dependence on subsidized Venezuelan oil—long the backbone of its energy grid and export economy—has left it uniquely vulnerable now that Caracas can no longer provide that support. Rolling blackouts, fuel shortages, and transportation breakdowns have become routine, amplifying public frustration and eroding the government’s control.

Compounding the crisis are Havana’s expanding ties with U.S. adversaries, including Russia, China, and Iran. American security officials have repeatedly warned that these relationships pose risks well beyond economics, potentially turning Cuba into a regional hub for hostile intelligence activity and sanctions evasion just ninety miles from U.S. shores.

The comparison to Venezuela is unavoidable. The arrest and ousting of Nicolás Maduro shattered the long-held belief that socialist strongmen in the Western Hemisphere are untouchable. That precedent now hangs over Díaz-Canel’s presidency, raising questions about whether Cuba’s leadership can weather the loss of foreign patronage and growing international pressure.