Trump reveals the US is open to negotiations with Cuba, citing the economic crisis as escalating into a humanitarian problem.

Trump reveals the US has opened negotiations with Cuba amidst Cuban's severe economic downturn due to oil and funding shortages following Venezuela's loss of leader.

On February 17, 2026, at 7:08 AM, Bloomberg News reported that: U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that U.S. government officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are currently in negotiations with the leader of the communist government of Cuba. Amidst the dire economic situation of this island nation.

Trump told reporters that “We are talking with Cuba right now, and Rubio is in talks with Cuba the most right now, adding that Cuba should definitely make a deal because it is a humanitarian threat, pointing out that current sanctions and oil sanctions remain in place, leaving Cuba with virtually no money or resources.”

Cuba's economic situation deteriorated sharply after the United States abducted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January. Venezuela, formerly a major oil source for Cuba, saw this lead to severe oil shortages that disrupted the electricity system, transportation, and other public services.

Rubio himself told Bloomberg that the United States is prepared to provide further humanitarian assistance, as Cuba has had to adapt significantly since the overthrow of Maduro.

Trump also said that while various options were being considered, he didn't think it would be necessary to use the same type of operation that led to Maduro's capture in Cuba. The implication was that he wasn't planning any military action at the moment.

refer : bloomberg.com

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