Trump wants to 'get Cuba done' before leaving office
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has expressed interest in potentially using military force against Cuba. In a recent interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, Trump said he would "certainly consider" such an option. He added that he wants to "get Cuba done" before his term ends in 2029. This is the first time Trump has mentioned a timeline for possible action against the island nation, Politico reported.
Criticism and praise
Trump praises Rubio's potential role in intervention
Trump, who has been critical of Cuba's communist government, called the island "essentially a failed... place, nation, whatever you wanna call it."
He said Secretary of State Marco Rubio would play a role in the intervention.
"We have a very good, talented guy for Cuba named Marco," he said. Rubio's parents are from Cuba and he would "love to do that," Trump added.
Sanctions and blockade
US has already imposed sanctions on Cuba
The United States has already imposed sanctions on Cuba's state oil company and President Miguel Diaz-Canel. An arrest warrant has also been issued for former President Raul Castro.
The US has accused Cuba's "ruling elite" of hoarding resources while the Cuban people face blackouts and shortages.
In January, Trump ordered an oil blockade on Cuba after the US deposed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a key ally of the Cuban government.
Claims
Desire for regime change in Cuba
Trump has claimed that Cuba "will fall fairly soon" and expressed a desire to help the country "on a humanitarian basis."
"Frankly, I'd love to be able to do it for the people, for the Cubans who came and were treated really badly," he said during his interview with Hewitt.
He had made similar comments in the past, telling reporters in March that he believed he would be "having the honor of taking Cuba."