Trump Threatens Cuba and Colombia: What’s Going On?

Tensions in Latin America escalated sharply after US President Donald Trump publicly threatened military action against Colombia and suggested that Cuba was close to political collapse.

The remarks followed Washington’s controversial operation in Venezuela and the capture of its leader, triggering widespread condemnation from regional governments and renewed fears of broader instability.

Trump’s comments signal a more aggressive posture toward Latin America, reviving debates around US interventionism, regional sovereignty, and the long term consequences of coercive diplomacy.

Key Takeaways

• Trump threatened Colombia with possible US military action
• He claimed Cuba is economically weak and close to collapse
• Multiple countries condemned the US operation in Venezuela
• Regional leaders warn of a dangerous precedent
• Analysts say threats may be aimed at coercion rather than war

What Trump Said About Colombia and Cuba

Donald Trump made the comments while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on January 4, 2026.

Referring to Colombia and Venezuela, Trump said both countries were “very sick” and accused Colombia’s leadership of enabling drug trafficking.

When asked directly whether he supported a US operation against Colombia, Trump responded that it “sounds good” to him.

Trump also claimed that Cuba was “ready to fall,” arguing that the country has lost its main source of income following the collapse of Venezuelan oil support.

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Reaction From Colombia’s President

Colombian President Gustavo Petro strongly rejected Trump’s remarks.

• Petro accused Trump of slander
• He warned Latin America against submission to external pressure
• He called for regional unity rather than retaliation

Petro stated that Latin America must become a region capable of engaging with the world on equal terms rather than being treated as subordinate to external powers.

Regional and International Condemnation

The US operation in Venezuela and subsequent threats prompted a joint statement from several countries.

• Brazil
• Chile
• Colombia
• Mexico
• Uruguay
• Spain

These governments expressed “profound concern” and said the actions violated international law and endangered regional peace.

They warned that unilateral military actions create a dangerous precedent that could destabilize Latin America.

Cuba and the US Narrative

Trump argued that Cuba’s economy is collapsing due to its reliance on Venezuelan oil, claiming the island has “no income” and does not require direct US military intervention.

Cuba has had strained relations with the US since the 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro, and remains a focal point of long standing US political hostility.

Analysts note that Cuba has historically been a higher priority target in US foreign policy than Colombia due to decades of unresolved ideological conflict.

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Warnings to Mexico

Trump also issued warnings to Mexico, urging the country to “get their act together” over drug trafficking concerns.

While describing Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum positively, Trump said he had repeatedly offered to send US troops into Mexico to combat cartels.

He argued that while Mexico’s government is capable, criminal organizations remain too powerful.

The Broader US Strategy in Latin America

Observers say Trump’s remarks fit into a broader agenda to expand US influence across the Western Hemisphere.

Trump has openly embraced a modernized version of the Monroe Doctrine, referring to it as the “Don-roe Doctrine.”

This approach emphasizes:

• Pressure on left leaning governments
• Support for right wing allies
• Use of sanctions, threats, and displays of force

Analysts argue this reflects a coordinated effort to reshape political alignment in Latin America.

Are These Threats Likely to Become Action

Experts remain divided on whether Trump will follow through with military action.

Some analysts believe the threats are intended to intimidate regional governments into compliance without actual conflict.

Others warn that repeated displays of force increase the risk of miscalculation and escalation, especially in politically fragile regions.

Why This Matters Globally

Latin America is deeply integrated into global energy markets, trade flows, and migration patterns.

Instability in the region can have ripple effects on:

• Energy prices
• Emerging market confidence
• Global geopolitical alignments

The situation also raises questions about international law, sovereignty, and the limits of unilateral power.

Final Thoughts

Trump’s threats against Colombia and Cuba mark a significant escalation in US rhetoric toward Latin America.

Whether intended as coercion or a signal of future action, the comments have already strained diplomatic relations and heightened regional anxiety.

As condemnation grows and uncertainty deepens, the coming weeks will determine whether this moment becomes another episode of brinkmanship or the beginning of a broader geopolitical shift.

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FAQs

Why did Trump threaten Colombia

Trump accused Colombia’s leadership of enabling drug trafficking and suggested US military action as a possible response.

What did Trump say about Cuba

He claimed Cuba is economically weak and close to collapse due to the loss of Venezuelan oil support.

How did Latin American countries respond

Several governments issued a joint statement condemning the US actions as a dangerous precedent.

Is the US planning a military operation in Colombia

There is no confirmed plan, but Trump’s remarks have raised serious concerns across the region.

Why is this situation important

It signals rising US interventionist rhetoric and could impact regional stability, energy markets, and global geopolitics.