In a recent post on Truth Social, President Donald J. Trump addressed the shifting dynamics between Cuba, Venezuela, and the United States in the wake of a major U.S. military operation in Venezuela. The operation, which occurred in early January 2026, resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and involved strikes that led to significant casualties, including Cuban personnel providing security services in Venezuela.
Historical Context of Cuba-Venezuela Relations
For many years, Cuba has relied on substantial supplies of oil and financial support from Venezuela. In exchange, Cuba has provided security and related services to Venezuelan leadership, particularly under the administrations of former President Hugo Chávez and his successor, Nicolás Maduro. These services included personnel from Cuba’s military and intelligence agencies who assisted with protection and other security functions for Venezuelan leaders.
Impact of Recent U.S. Military Action
The U.S. operation in Venezuela, which took place in the early hours of January 3, 2026, targeted infrastructure and Maduro’s compound in Caracas to apprehend the Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores. Reports indicate that Cuban nationals serving in security roles were among those affected. The Cuban government has officially confirmed that 32 of its military and intelligence personnel were killed during the strikes and related actions, describing them as having been deployed at Venezuela’s request.
President Trump referred to these individuals in his post, stating that most of the Cubans involved in providing security services are now deceased following the U.S. action. He noted that Venezuela no longer requires protection from what he described as “thugs and extortionists” who had held influence for many years.
U.S. Commitment to Venezuela’s Security
President Trump emphasized that Venezuela now benefits from the protection of the United States, describing it as possessing “the most powerful military in the World (by far!).” He affirmed that the U.S. would ensure Venezuela’s security moving forward.
End of Economic Support to Cuba
In direct response to these developments, President Trump declared that there would be no more oil or money flowing from Venezuela to Cuba, describing the amount as “ZERO!” This statement aligns with broader U.S. actions, including enforcement measures on Venezuelan oil shipments that have disrupted long-standing economic arrangements between the two nations.
Call for Negotiations
President Trump concluded his post with a strong recommendation to Cuba, urging its leadership to “make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.” He signed off by thanking readers for their attention to the matter and identifying himself as “President DJT.”
This announcement reflects the significant geopolitical shifts in the region following the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, which has disrupted longstanding alliances and economic ties involving Cuba. The full implications for Cuba’s energy supply and economy remain under close international observation as events continue to unfold.
