Russia said Tuesday it stands in "unwavering solidarity" with Cuba after President Donald Trump said he expected to have the honor of "taking Cuba" and added, "I can do anything I want" with the communist-run island.
Reuters reported that Russia's Foreign Ministry, without naming Trump, warned of rising tensions and described Cuba as the "Island of Liberty."
"Russia reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the government and fraternal people of Cuba," it said.
"We strongly condemn attempts of gross interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state, intimidation and the use of illegal unilateral restrictive measures."
The ministry said Cuba is facing "unprecedented challenges" tied to long-term U.S. trade, financial and energy restrictions.
The Kremlin said it remains in contact with Cuban leadership and is prepared to provide "all possible assistance," including financial support.
Russia also said it would continue to support Cuba with resources as economic pressure increases.
Separately, The New York Times reported that the Trump administration is attempting to leverage Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel away from power during ongoing negotiations, according to unnamed sources familiar with the talks.
The effort would remove a top figure while leaving the communist government structure in place.
The administration has signaled to Cuban negotiators that Diaz-Canel must go but has not dictated how that would occur.
The approach reflects a strategy focused on forcing compliance rather than fully dismantling the government.
Some administration negotiators believe removing Diaz-Canel could open the door to economic changes they say he opposes.
The United States is not currently seeking action against members of the Castro family, who remain influential power brokers.
If accepted, the move would mark the first major political shift tied to recent talks between Washington and Havana.
The potential outcome is viewed as a symbolic issue that could be presented as removing a longtime adversarial leader.
Trump vowed Monday to "take" Cuba as the communist island plunged into darkness under a power blackout linked to a crippling oil embargo imposed by Washington.
After nearly seven decades defying the United States, Havana's communist leaders are under pressure from Trump who seems determined to write another chapter of history.
"You know, all my life I've been hearing about the United States and Cuba. When will the United States do it?" Trump said.
"I do believe I'll be ... having the honor of taking Cuba," Trump told reporters at the White House.
"Whether I free it, take it — think I could do anything I want with it, you want to know the truth. They're a very weakened nation right now."
Jim Mishler ✉
Jim Mishler, a seasoned reporter, anchor and news director, has decades of experience covering crime, politics and environmental issues.
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