'Finish Iran war first, then we'll look at Cuba': Trump
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has said that his administration's priority is to end the conflict in Iran before turning its attention to Cuba. He made these remarks at a White House event celebrating Major League Soccer champions Inter Miami CF. "We want to finish this one first," he said, referring to the war with Iran.
Conflict update
US military making rapid progress in Iran conflict: Trump
Trump also claimed that the US and Israeli forces are making rapid progress in the conflict with Iran. He said, "The United States military, together with the wonderful Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy, far ahead of schedule." The president claimed that Iran's military capabilities have been heavily degraded. "They have no air force, they have no air defense," he said, adding that the US had destroyed "24 ships in three days."
Negotiation prospects
Iranian leaders seeking negotiations to end war
Trump also hinted that Iranian leaders are seeking negotiations to end the war. He said, "They're calling, they're saying, 'How do we make a deal?'" He, however, added, "I said, 'You're being a little bit late, and we want to fight now more than they do.'" The US president also urged Iranian diplomats to help reshape their country's political future. He said those who cooperate could "help us shape a new and better Iran with great potential."
Policy shift
Trump hints at potential shift in US-Cuba relations
While Cuba is not currently a priority, Trump hinted at a possible change in US foreign policy once the Iran conflict is resolved. He said, "But that will be just a question of time before you and a lot of unbelievable people are going to be going back to Cuba." The president also suggested Havana's eagerness to negotiate with Washington. "Cuba wants to make a deal so badly," he said.
Future prospects
Global oil markets largely stabilized amid conflict, says Trump
Trump also said global oil markets have largely stabilized despite the conflict, although he acknowledged it forced a temporary shift in US priorities. He hinted that further measures aimed at easing pressure on energy markets could be announced soon. Meanwhile, the US has granted India a temporary 30-day waiver to buy Russian oil, despite existing restrictions. The waiver was announced by Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent on Friday.