The U.S. President Donald Trump issued a message to the Cuban exile community on Monday, stating that he would like to "take care" of those who escaped communism on rafts, while intensifying his economic offensive against the regime in Havana.
"I would like to take care of the people who came from Cuba, those who fled in rafts crossing waters filled with sharks. Many would like to return, at least to visit their relatives. And I believe we are very close to achieving that. We are currently engaging directly with the leaders of Cuba," said Trump in statements about the island.
The words come in the midst of a new chapter of pressure from Washington to cut off the sources of funding and fuel that sustain the regime.
"Cuba is a failed state."
In a message posted from the official X account of the White House (@POTUS), Trump described Cuba as a "failed state" and asserted that it no longer receives financial or energy support from its traditional allies.
“They are not receiving money from Venezuela or anywhere else. It is a failed nation. Mexico is going to stop sending them oil... We are dealing with the Cuban leaders right now,” he stated.
Trump has insisted that his administration aims to completely isolate the regime and suffocate its ability to maintain internal control through external subsidies.
New energy blockade against Havana
These statements come days after Trump announced measures to halt the flow of crude oil to Cuba, including pressures on countries like Venezuela and Mexico.
Trump recently stated that Cuba "no longer receives oil or money" from Caracas, as part of the strategy to cut off its main energy support.
Meanwhile, U.S. media have pointed out that although Trump claimed that "there will be no more oil or money to Cuba," the current policy still allows some shipments from Mexico.
A political message to the exile
The direct reference to the Cubans who escaped on rafts connects with one of the most dramatic symbols of forced migration from the island, as happened during the balseros crisis of 1994.
For many in exile, Trump's words represent a sign of support against a regime that continues to push thousands of Cubans to flee by sea, land, or any possible means.
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