Today, Explained Is Cuba next?
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Mar 9, 2026 
Joe (Yohe) Suarez, Cuban journalist who fled persecution in 2022, speaks about daily life under the regime and hopes for change. Vivian Salama, Atlantic staff writer on wars and international conflict, explains U.S. policy aims, why Cuba is seen as strategically important, and possible paths for change. They discuss timing, regional ties with Venezuela, and what meaningful transition might look like.
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Cuba Seen As Next Step In Hemisphere Strategy
- The Trump administration views toppling Cuba as part of a broader plan to reassert US dominance in the Western Hemisphere.
- Vivian Salama explains this ties to a national security strategy focused on American supremacy and legacy-building by the president.
Venezuela Collapse Exposes Cuba's Lifeline
- US justification for intervening in Venezuela — narco-terrorism and law enforcement framing — is being used as a template for actions affecting Cuba.
- Vivian Salama links Cuba's dependence on Venezuelan oil and services to its vulnerability after Maduro's fall.
Speed Of Action Driven By Electoral Calendar
- The US may prefer a rapid, decisive operation while domestic politics favor showing quick foreign-policy wins before elections.
- Salama describes a 'one, two, three, punch' logic to complete operations quickly so political benefits appear by summer campaigning season.