US signals possible large-scale strikes on Iran as experts doubt military solution

Fort Myers, FL (AP) — On Friday, President Donald Trump addressed a rally for candidates in South Florida, suggesting U.S. warships returning from the Middle East could make a brief stopover in Cuba on their way back from the Iran war. This was Trump's latest proposal for a more interventionist approach to Cuba. The idea had been floated earlier this year but had not been mentioned recently until now.

This statement came in response to a shouted question from the crowd about the island nation. Trump added, "We'll do a little stopover," and explained that they would pass Cuba about 50 yards off the coast before sending Secretary of State Marco Rubio to finalize the deal. Both Rubio and Trump have shown a strong interest in action in Cuba, with Trump previously stating that Cuba would be "next" for U.S. intervention, following the winding down of the Iran war that has yet to occur.

In May, Trump and Rubio had raised the possibility of U.S. military intervention in Cuba, following the announcement of criminal charges against the island's former leader, Raúl Castro. Trump claimed that previous U.S. presidents had considered intervention in Cuba for decades, but that "it looks like I'll be the one that does it."

Rubio, speaking separately to reporters, stated that Cuba has been a national security threat for years due to its ties with U.S. adversaries, and that Trump is determined to address the issue. Despite claiming that the administration is committed to resolving differences with Cuba peacefully, Rubio expressed doubts about the likelihood of a diplomatic resolution with the current Cuban government.

Moments after Trump's speech, Rubio posted on social media urging "now is the time" for action on Cuba, encouraging people to support a discreet partnership with the CIA. However, Cuban officials have expressed concerns about Trump's threats, with one official saying that the U.S. is creating a hostile environment.