Trump Warns of Cuba After Claiming U.S. 'Winning' War Against Iran

President also slams NATO's role in Iran negotiations

Mar. 28, 2026 at 2:59am

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In a speech at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute Summit in Miami, President Donald Trump indicated a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy, suggesting Cuba will be the next focus following developments regarding Iran. Trump touted what he described as U.S. successes against Iran, but abruptly added 'Cuba is next, by the way' before asking the media to disregard the statement. The President also criticized NATO's absence in negotiations with Iran and questioned the value of U.S. financial contributions to the alliance.

Why it matters

Trump's comments signal a renewed focus on Cuba, which has faced severe economic and energy crises exacerbated by decades of U.S. sanctions. Any escalation in pressure could further destabilize the island nation. Additionally, the President's criticism of NATO's role in Iran negotiations and the U.S. financial commitment to the alliance could signal a shift in America's approach to international alliances.

The details

In his speech, Trump touted what he described as U.S. successes in negotiations with Iran, but then abruptly added 'Cuba is next, by the way' before asking the media to disregard the statement. This remark suggests a potential new direction for the administration's foreign policy efforts. Trump also criticized NATO's absence in the Iran negotiations, stating 'They just weren't there,' and questioned the value of U.S. financial contributions to the alliance, suggesting the U.S. may no longer need to be as involved given NATO's perceived lack of support.

  • On March 28, 2026, Trump spoke at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute Summit in Miami.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States, who has indicated a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Cuba and criticized NATO's role in Iran negotiations.

Miguel Díaz-Canel

The current President of Cuba, whose country faces severe economic and energy crises that could be exacerbated by any escalation in U.S. pressure.

Nicolás Maduro

The former President of Venezuela, who was captured by the U.S. military in January 2026 as part of the administration's broader foreign policy strategy.

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What they’re saying

“Cuba is next, by the way. But pretend I didn't say that.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

“They just weren't there.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

“It's going to create a lot of money for the United States.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

What’s next

The specifics of any potential actions against Cuba remain unclear, but Trump's statement signals a renewed focus on the island nation. Developments in U.S.-Cuba relations will be important to monitor, as changes in policy could have significant implications for businesses and investors operating in the region.

The takeaway

Trump's comments on Cuba, coupled with his criticism of NATO's role in Iran negotiations and the U.S. financial commitment to the alliance, suggest a potential shift in the administration's foreign policy approach. This could have far-reaching consequences, both for Cuba and the broader geopolitical landscape.