President Trump’s Continued Interest in Cuba

President Trump’s focus on Cuba is longstanding. Recent developments show an intensified campaign by the administration against the Cuban government. The Justice Department recently unveiled an indictment against Raúl Castro, the former president of Cuba, along with five others, accusing them of murder and conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens.

Trump’s broader objective is to expand U.S. territory and remove leaders he disfavors. His administration’s previous actions include a successful military operation in Venezuela. Efforts to claim Greenland and the Panama Canal have been less successful. Cuba now appears to be next on his agenda.

Trump’s interest in Cuba dates back over a decade. In 2011 and 2012, executives from the Trump Organization visited Cuba to consider building a golf course. During his 2016 presidential campaign, he described Cuba as a promising investment opportunity.

Despite recent criticisms of Cuba as a ‘failed nation,’ Trump has acknowledged its strategic location advantages and attractions. Trump remarked in March, ‘I think Cuba, in its own way, tourism and everything else, it’s a beautiful island, great weather.’

Following the indictment announcement, Trump assured reporters of no further escalation with Cuba. He stated, ‘No, there won’t be escalation. I don’t think there needs to be,’ commenting on the island’s current state.

“Look the place is falling apart, it’s a mess,” he continued, adding: “They’ve really lost control.”

Tyler Pager, a White House correspondent for The Times, provides coverage on President Trump and his administration.