President Trump warns Cuba to make a “deal” before it’s too late after a bold military operation that ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, signaling a major geopolitical shift.
Story Highlights
- U.S. military operation captures Venezuelan President Maduro.
- President Trump declares no more oil or money will go to Cuba.
- Trump urges Havana to negotiate swiftly or risk economic collapse.
- Cuban casualties reported during the operation, escalating tensions.
U.S. Military Operation and Its Aftermath
In a dramatic turn of events, the United States launched a strategic military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The operation, viewed by many as a counternarcotics and asset-recovery mission, quickly shifted the balance of power in the region.
President Trump announced that with Maduro detained in New York, the U.S. is now “in charge” of Venezuela, promising that Venezuelan oil would benefit its citizens rather than foreign adversaries.
Maduro’s capture has significant implications for Cuba, which has long depended on Venezuelan oil and financial support. With dozens of Cuban security personnel reportedly killed during the operation, tensions between the U.S. and Cuba have escalated.
Trump’s declaration that no more oil or money will flow to Cuba has placed Havana in a precarious economic position, prompting Trump to suggest that it is time for Cuba to strike a deal with Washington.
Trump tells Cuba to 'make a deal, before it is too late' https://t.co/zINhOUhhdu
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) January 11, 2026
Impact on Cuba and Regional Geopolitics
Trump’s policy shift is seen as a maximum-pressure strategy aimed at crippling Cuba’s economic dependence on Venezuelan oil. For nearly 25 years, Venezuela has been a key economic benefactor to Cuba, making the sudden halt of oil shipments a severe blow to the Cuban economy.
The pressure on Cuba is further compounded by the loss of Cuban personnel in Venezuela, raising questions about Havana’s ability to maintain its influence and security operations abroad.
Amidst these developments, President Trump has openly stated that “Cuba looks like it’s ready to fall,” citing the immediate economic shock and loss of income.
The Cuban government, led by President Miguel Díaz-Canel, has condemned the U.S. actions as “terrorist acts,” accusing Washington of seeking control over Venezuela’s oil and resources under the guise of fighting drug trafficking.
Future Prospects and Strategic Considerations
With the U.S. asserting control over Venezuela and urging oil companies to reenter the country, the region faces a shifting geopolitical landscape. Trump’s overtures to Cuba to negotiate could open the door for diplomatic engagement, but the path forward remains uncertain.
The Cuban leadership’s response will be critical in determining whether Havana chooses to align more closely with alternative global patrons or seeks a rapprochement with the United States.
As the situation unfolds, the implications for U.S. foreign policy and regional stability will be closely watched. The Trump administration’s actions have reinforced its commitment to combating drug trafficking and reducing adversarial influence in the Western Hemisphere, but the long-term consequences of these bold moves remain to be seen.
