Trump Calls Cuba 'Failed Nation,' Refuses to Rule Out Military Action
President Trump called Cuba a 'failed nation' while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, refusing to rule out military action against the island nation. When asked if he would consider a military operation similar to the recent Venezuela intervention, Trump stated 'I don't want to answer that question' but added 'If I was, it wouldn't be a very tough operation, as you can figure, but I don't think that'll be necessary.' The remarks came as Cuba faces severe fuel shortages under a U.S. oil blockade. Trump confirmed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is currently in discussions with Havana, saying 'they should absolutely make a deal.' Political critics characterized Trump's comments as 'boasting of a war crime' given the humanitarian impact of the blockade on Cuban civilians.
"Cuba is right now, a failed nation. If I was [planning military action], it wouldn't be a very tough operation, as you can figure, but I don't think that'll be necessary." — Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One when asked about potential military action against Cuba