Donald Trump and Marco Rubio called for new leadership in Cuba as a fresh nationwide blackout highlighted the country’s deepening economic crisis

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday signalled imminent action against Cuba’s socialist government, as Washington’s recent moves deepen the island’s ongoing crisis.

A day after imposing fresh sanctions on Venezuela—including measures that halted key oil supplies to Cuba and contributed to a nationwide blackout—Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested the US could expand its influence in the Caribbean nation.

“Cuba right now is in very bad shape,” Trump said, adding, “We’ll be doing something with Cuba very soon.”

Such remarks come amid an increasingly assertive US foreign policy, following Washington’s actions in Venezuela and military strikes against Iran.

Pressure on Cuba’s leadership

The Trump administration is reportedly seeking the exit of Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, even as talks continue between Washington and Havana. However, analysts note that real power in Cuba is often seen as resting with revolutionary figure Raúl Castro and his family.

Experts remain uncertain about the US endgame. Michael Bustamante, a historian at the University of Miami, said the unfolding developments are difficult to interpret and lack clear direction.

Economic strain and blackouts

Cuba’s fragile power grid has been under severe strain, with electricity only gradually returning to parts of the country. The government has blamed its worsening energy crisis on US restrictions, including threats of tariffs on countries supplying oil to the island.

Rubio argued that Cuba’s economic and political system is fundamentally broken and incapable of resolving the crisis without major changes. While Cuban officials have expressed openness to trade with US companies, Washington remains sceptical.

Trump has also floated the idea of a “friendly takeover” of Cuba, while demanding the release of political prisoners and broader political and economic reforms in exchange for easing sanctions.

Daily life deteriorates

With power outages continuing, daily life has become increasingly difficult for ordinary Cubans. Food spoilage, lack of basic services, and safety risks are widespread.

In Havana, only a small percentage of residents had electricity restored early in the week. Many, especially the elderly, are struggling to cope as outages persist and essential supplies dwindle.

The ongoing economic pressure and infrastructure collapse have intensified hardship across the island, prompting some residents to consider leaving in search of better conditions.