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The recent warnings from the President of the United States, Donald Trump, to the Cuban regime have generated diverse reactions among the island's citizens, ranging from fear of a potential escalation to hope for a peaceful political change.
According to the agency EFE, many Cubans are skeptical about the possibility of the threats materializing, although they acknowledge that the current political moment could signify a turning point following the capture in Caracas of the Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, on January 3, during a U.S. military operation.
"Cubans are hoping for a change that benefits us. We need to see what Trump does. Hopefully, the people won't suffer the consequences of what might happen, and all the changes will occur peacefully," said a resident of Old Havana, interviewed on Obispo Street.
The U.S. President warned this week that Cuba is in a situation of "weakness without Maduro's economic support" and urged Miguel Díaz-Canel's government to "reach an agreement before it is too late."
Trump stated that the leaders of the island "can allow a real economy where people thrive or continue with their failed dictatorship, which will lead to a systemic collapse."
The regime's response was immediate and, as usual, rhetorical. Díaz-Canel called to “defend the homeland to the last drop of blood” and denied any contact with Washington.
Meanwhile, in the streets of Havana, there is a prevailing mix of exhaustion, caution, and distrust.
A 63-year-old man from Havana, who preferred not to give his name, stated that "there needs to be an opening that benefits us all. Why can't there be multiple parties or different ways of thinking?"
Others, on the other hand, choose to stay on the sidelines. “It's better to be calm, just as we are, than to get involved in that shooting. In the end, those who will suffer the most are the ones at the bottom,” said Adonis López, a 36-year-old man.
There are also those who appeal to official patriotism. "The United States has always tried to take control of Cuba, but they have always faced our resistance," said a woman who identified herself as a revolutionary.
Another interviewee, seated in his bicitaxi near the Capitol, added: "Here there is no fear. If there is war, we must take aim at the United States, even though it is a great power."
In contrast, other Cubans downplay Trump's words. “I don't think he would dare go that far. They won't take anyone here,” said Miguel González, a 66-year-old street sweeper.
Leidy Santos, a street vendor, agreed: "Nothing is going to happen, but I ask God every day to keep everything the same."
The statements reflect the social polarization that the country is experiencing. Some hope that international pressure will expedite a political transition, while others fear a new crisis or a military conflict.
For now, the prevailing message among the people of Havana is clear: they want change, but without war.
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