Cuba’s Foreign Minister: We’ll Outlast Trump
The Trump administration is carrying out the most intense pressure campaign on Cuba in decades. The Cuban government says its plan is simply to endure.
The comments from Cuba's Foreign Minister come as the Trump administration continues to tighten its grip on the island nation, with new restrictions on travel and remittances aimed at curbing the flow of dollars to the communist government. This latest salvo in the decades-long standoff between the US and Cuba is significant, as it marks a departure from the more conciliatory approach of the Obama administration.
The Cuban government's strategy of endurance is likely rooted in its experience weathering previous US embargoes, which have been in place in some form since the early days of the revolution. By standing firm, the Cubans may be betting that the Trump administration's policies will ultimately prove unsustainable, either due to domestic opposition or international pressure. It's also possible that Havana is counting on a change in US leadership come 2024, which could lead to a more favorable policy environment.
What's next to watch is how the Cuban economy responds to the increased pressure, and whether the government's strategy of endurance will pay off. With the country's economy already facing significant challenges, including a decline in tourism revenue and a shortage of hard currency, the situation bears close monitoring. Additionally, the international community's response to the US's actions will be important, as other nations may push back against the Trump administration's efforts to isolate Cuba.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.