Arabic version: ترامب يزيد الضغط على كوبا مع تفاقم الأزمة الإنسانية

The United States is escalating its pressure on Cuba, with President Donald Trump asserting that he can do “anything I want” regarding the island. This statement comes as federal prosecutors reportedly prepare an indictment for Raúl Castro, the 94-year-old former president and brother of Fidel Castro, amidst a growing humanitarian crisis in Cuba.

According to The Guardian, the U.S. has intensified its economic stranglehold on Cuba, leading to nationwide blackouts and severe shortages of essential services, including healthcare. The oil blockade has resulted in schools and universities closing, while protests have emerged across the nation as the government struggles to manage the crisis.

In a recent statement, Trump mentioned that after the removal of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, “Cuba is next.” This rhetoric raises concerns over potential military action, which analysts warn could be disastrous for both the U.S. and the Cuban population. The blockade has drawn criticism from UN experts, who argue that it is unlawful and may constitute collective punishment against the Cuban people.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s visit to Cuba underscored the U.S. demand for significant changes in the island’s governance, including economic reforms and the closure of foreign intelligence posts. The ongoing sanctions have severely impacted Cuba’s economy, leading to the exit of foreign companies and a collapse in tourism, which is critical for the island’s income.

Cuba’s Deputy Prime Minister, Óscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga, expressed openness to partnerships with U.S. companies in key sectors, but the U.S. administration has deemed these proposals insufficient. As the situation continues to deteriorate, the future of Cuba remains uncertain, with many citizens caught between their own government’s failures and the pressure from the U.S. government.