US Eyes a Calm Takeover of Cuba, Sparking Debate

The former U. S. president announced that the United States might consider a “friendly takeover” of Cuba, stirring fresh controversy as diplomatic tensions between Washington and Havana reach new heights. He said the Cuban government is in a difficult situation and that talks are underway, hinting at a potential shift in the island’s political landscape. These remarks come amid a long history of strained relations, with the U. S. intensifying pressure on Cuba after the successful capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January. The U. S. had secured cooperation from Venezuela’s acting president, who pledged to open the country’s oil reserves to foreign firms. The new U. S. stance follows a series of actions that have weakened Cuba’s economy, including the withdrawal of oil supplies and an imposed blockade. Critics argue this could echo past U. S. economic domination that fueled the 1959 revolution against Fidel Castro’s regime.The former president also referenced the large Cuban exile community in the United States, suggesting that a takeover could be positive for those who long to return home. He claimed he has heard about Cuba since childhood, adding that the island is in “big trouble. ” Cuban officials have stated that any discussion must respect sovereignty and self‑determination, insisting that internal affairs remain under Cuban control. The new U. S. proposal clashes with this stance and raises fears of a repeat of historical conflicts. A historian from the University of Bath noted that the situation resembles a “Berlin Wall moment” for Cuba, hinting at a possible dramatic shift. The former president’s comments may also be aimed at securing support from Cuban exiles in Miami, who have long advocated for regime change. The debate highlights the complex dynamics between U. S. foreign policy, Cuban sovereignty, and the interests of expatriate communities, prompting calls for careful consideration of the island’s future.