Trump Reportedly Plans "Friendly Takeover" of Cuba
Locales: UNITED STATES, CUBA

MIAMI, FL - February 28th, 2026 - Former President Donald Trump is reportedly exploring a highly unorthodox plan to exert control over Cuba, described by sources as a "friendly takeover." The proposal, currently under discussion within his inner circle, seeks to capitalize on Cuba's existing economic struggles and political instability to achieve a shift in power, potentially reshaping the decades-long fraught relationship between the United States and the island nation.
The plan, details of which remain largely confidential, apparently centers around leveraging Cuba's current vulnerabilities. Sources indicate the aim isn't outright military intervention, but rather a calculated strategy to encourage - or induce - Cuban leadership to willingly transfer control to the United States. This approach is framed as a means to "reset" relations and bring stability to the region, although critics immediately raise concerns about the legality, ethics, and potential ramifications of such a maneuver.
"It's essentially a friendly takeover," one source familiar with the discussions told WSVN. "The idea is to present a scenario where Cuban leaders see more benefit in aligning with the U.S. than continuing on their current path. Economic incentives and security guarantees are key components being considered."
The genesis of this proposal appears rooted in the ongoing debate surrounding U.S. policy towards Cuba. While the Biden administration has largely maintained a cautious stance, emphasizing incremental engagement and humanitarian aid, Republican voices have consistently called for a more assertive approach, demanding greater progress on political and economic freedoms within Cuba. This divergence in perspectives provides the political backdrop for Trump's exploration of more radical solutions.
However, experts are already warning of potentially severe consequences. Dr. Anya Ramirez, a foreign policy analyst specializing in Latin American affairs, cautions that any abrupt change in power dynamics could ignite widespread instability. "A 'friendly takeover,' even if presented as such, risks being perceived as neo-colonialism by the Cuban people. We could easily see a significant backlash, potentially leading to civil unrest and humanitarian crises," she explains. "Furthermore, such a move would undoubtedly draw condemnation from international allies, particularly in Latin America, damaging U.S. credibility and undermining regional partnerships."
The historical context of U.S.-Cuban relations is crucial to understanding the sensitivity of this situation. The 1959 Cuban Revolution, the subsequent Bay of Pigs invasion, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the decades-long U.S. embargo have all deeply shaped the relationship. Attempting a takeover, even one framed as benevolent, would likely be seen as a continuation of a pattern of U.S. interventionism, fueling anti-American sentiment.
The economic dimensions of the plan are also complex. Cuba is currently grappling with a severe economic crisis, marked by shortages of food, medicine, and fuel. While the U.S. could offer economic assistance as a leverage point, simply throwing money at the problem is unlikely to solve the underlying structural issues. A sustainable solution would require comprehensive economic reforms, but imposing these from outside could further exacerbate tensions.
Beyond the immediate implications for Cuba, Trump's potential plan raises broader questions about U.S. foreign policy. His history of unconventional approaches, including direct negotiations with foreign leaders and a willingness to challenge established norms, suggests he is not afraid to take risks. However, some observers worry that this approach often prioritizes short-term political gains over long-term strategic interests.
The success of any such undertaking would depend heavily on several factors, including the level of support within the Cuban government and military, the reaction of the Cuban population, and the response from the international community. Securing buy-in from key regional players, such as Mexico and Canada, would be vital to mitigating potential diplomatic fallout.
As of today, the plan remains in its early stages, and numerous obstacles stand in its way. The logistical, political, and economic challenges are substantial. However, it undeniably underscores Trump's continued willingness to consider bold and - to many - controversial solutions to complex foreign policy problems. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this proposal gains further traction and whether it moves beyond the realm of discussion into the territory of concrete action. The world will be watching closely to see if the former president attempts to rewrite the script on U.S.-Cuba relations once again.
Read the Full 7News Miami Article at:
[ https://wsvn.com/news/politics/trump-mulls-friendly-takeover-of-cuba-amid-discussions-of-us-relationship-with-island-nation/ ]