President Trump highlighted U.S. gains from a post-Maduro Venezuela while signaling an imminent push against Cuba’s regime during his Saturday speech at the Shield of the Americas Summit in Doral, Florida.
Venezuela Developments
Trump praised new Venezuelan leader Delcy Rodriguez for cooperating since January’s operation capturing Nicolás Maduro, noting record oil production with major U.S. firms involved and both nations profiting. He announced formal U.S. recognition of her government and a new Treasury license for a “historic gold deal” barring Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Cuba from Venezuelan state gold miner Minerven.
Cuba Pressure
Shifting from the Iran focus, Trump declared Cuba “at the end of the line” without Venezuelan oil subsidies or cash, criticizing its communist philosophy. He referenced his January national emergency order punishing oil suppliers to the island and said negotiations with Secretary of State Marco Rubio are underway for a quick deal, predicting the regime’s “last moments.”
Summit Context
The event gathered hemispheric allies to advance freedom, security, and prosperity; Trump noted Latin leaders’ requests to “take care of Cuba,” vowing to handle it amid Iran’s priority.
