Trump says he wants to ‘get Cuba done’ before leaving office, would consider military force

Donald Trump said he wants to “get Cuba done” before leaving office in 2029 and would consider a short military operation against the island’s government. The remarks, made in a radio interview, are the first time he has set a timeline for possible military intervention and come amid continued US pressure on Cuba.

Trump said his administration was monitoring Havana closely and that Secretary of State Marco Rubio would support action. The US maintains a comprehensive economic embargo, while Cuba faces repeated nationwide blackouts and shortages of fuel and food. Cuba’s embassy estimated the blockade cost the island $8 billion between March 2025 and February 2026; the US Treasury also recently imposed sanctions on Cuban oil tankers and shipping companies.