President Donald Trump ramped up pressure on Cuba via Truth Social, issuing a ‘zero tolerance’ ultimatum that threatens to dismantle the nation’s key economic supports. ‘Venezuela lifeline CUT OFF. Deal with USA BEFORE TOO LATE. ZERO! No oil, no money—ZERO!’ Trump declared, urging a swift agreement.

This aggressive posture targets Cuba’s dependence on Venezuelan petroleum and subsidies, vital amid longstanding U.S. embargoes. With America now steering Venezuelan oil flows, Havana’s supply lines are vulnerable. Reports confirm U.S. dominance in this arena, amplifying Trump’s leverage.

A repost amplified the message: Trump shared Cliff Smith’s post proclaiming ‘Marco Rubio will be President of Cuba’ with an emoji twist. ‘I like that!’ Trump replied, nodding to Rubio’s roots—son of Cuban exiles—as perfect for oversight.

As Secretary of State, Rubio embodies Washington’s vision for Cuba: democratic transition or submission. The low-profile Smith account underscores how social media fuels policy signals.

Cuba’s leadership, cornered by energy shortages and economic woes, confronts a pivotal choice. Trump’s salvo recalls past U.S. strategies to isolate the Castro-era regime. Observers watch if this ‘lifeline cutoff’ forces negotiations or sparks defiance, with broader implications for Latin American alliances.