During a Friday appearance at the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, President Donald Trump struck a playful tone while discussing a potential “takeover” of Cuba.
The “Takeover” Remarks
While acknowledging former Democratic Representative Dan Mica, Trump quipped about the former congressman’s Cuban roots, stating, “He comes from, originally, a place called Cuba, which we will be taking over almost immediately.”
Trump suggested that such a move would follow the resolution of current tensions with Iran. He painted a cinematic picture of the takeover:
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The Strategy: Utilizing a major naval asset like the USS Abraham Lincoln.
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The Scene: Parking the carrier 100 yards offshore.
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The Prediction: “They’ll say, ‘Thank you very much, we give up.’”
New Sanctions & Policy
Despite the lighthearted delivery, the comments coincided with a serious escalation in U.S. policy. Trump signed an executive order Friday imposing fresh sanctions, labeling Cuba’s actions an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to U.S. national security and values.
The Sanctions Target:
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Sectors: Energy, defense, and financial services.
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Personnel: High-ranking Cuban officials and those accused of corruption.
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International Pressure: Foreign banks could lose access to U.S. markets if they continue to facilitate transactions for the Cuban government.
Expert & Political Reaction
The move is being interpreted as a broader geopolitical signal. Andy Gómez, a professor at the University of Miami, noted that the sanctions serve as a warning to nations like Russia and China, proving that Cuba remains a priority for the administration.
Support for the measure was strong among Florida Republicans. Rep. Carlos Giménez praised the crackdown on Cuba’s “security apparatus,” stating:
“Anyone who props up this tyranny will face serious consequences… The days of impunity are over. Freedom and our security are not negotiable.”
🚨#BREAKING: President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will be taking control of Cuba almost immediately pic.twitter.com/HDjNjQBfu3
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) May 2, 2026