As of early April 2026, Cuba is experiencing a severe economic and energy crisis exacerbated by a near-total U.S. oil embargo, leading to nationwide blackouts and fuel shortages. A sanctioned Russian tanker recently brought a temporary fuel lifeline, while the government announced the release of 2,010 prisoners amidst mounting internal pressure and ongoing talks with the Trump administration
The United States and Cuban Americans have the opportunity to effect tangible changes in Cuba. Looking and focusing more clearly on the Western Hemisphere, we see opportunities for Cuba to reestablish their historic nation back into prosperity. Focusing on rebuilding and restoring Cuba is well worth the time and effort. Perhaps a possible Commonwealth or Territory of the United States could be the solution for Cuba. Puerto Rico is officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and is a self-governing and unincorporated territory of the United States. Would the people of Cuba accept this new relationship with the America?
There are choices for the Cuban people in regard to its future. Think of the Country that made the finest Cigars in the world and a vibrant sugar industry and global entertainment center and travel destination. Why would the people and current government remain poor under a communist system versus accepting a future of a democratic free society? There is a great opportunity for Cubans to join the United States and experience a bright future.
President Trump is moving swiftly to restore the integrity of the Western Hemisphere, as well as to Cuba and Venezuela. The Monroe Doctrine was articulated in President James Monroe’s seventh annual message to Congress on December 2, 1823. According to Monroe, the European powers were obligated to respect the Western Hemisphere as the United States’ sphere of interest. We now call this the Donroe Doctrine initiative to secure the Western Hemisphere.
During a press conference at the White House’s Oval Office, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the urgent need for a dramatic shift in leadership to help Cuba emerge from its ongoing crisis. The bottom line is their economy is broken. “It’s a non-functional economy.” He highlighted the regime’s historic reliance on external subsidies to stay afloat. What they call a revolution, it’s not even that; it’s just something that has survived on Soviet Union and Chinese subsidies. He bluntly stated the current leadership’s failure to address this challenge. They are in significant trouble, and those in charge don’t know how to fix it. Rubio’s prescription was clear: “They need to bring in new leadership and pursue dramatic changes.” Earlier, Rubio had voiced that those reforms in Cuba are insufficient to address its deep-rooted issues. President Donald Trump lent his support with a brief, yet impactful statement on March 17 – “Cuba is speaking with Marco Rubio; we will do something very soon.”
The Western Hemisphere must be aligned to safeguard the area and countries from Cartels/drugs, China (CCP), and radical Islam. It is essential that the borders, rare minerals, and trade routes be secured. It is recommended that initiatives be pursued to see a new Cuba.
www.standupamericaus.org; Contact: [email protected];
This column was published at Paul Vallely’s Substack
The views expressed in CCNS member articles are not necessarily the views or positions of the entire CCNS. They are the views of the authors, who are members of the CCNS.
