First Venezuela, then Iran. Why Cuba is Donald Trump’s next target
From What You Need To Know by ITV News
June 8, 2026 · 9 min
About this episode
The episode explores the escalating tensions between the United States and Cuba, examining Donald Trump's foreign policy and its implications for Cuba's future.
In this ITV News explainer, we examine why tensions between the United States and Cuba are escalating, how Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy has fuelled speculation about Cuba’s future, and what options could be on the table for Washington. Presented by ITV News reporter Will Tullis, this video explores the historical roots of US-Cuba hostility, the impact of decades of sanctions and embargoes, and the growing economic crisis facing ordinary Cubans. We look at whether increased pressure on Havana could lead to regime change, a “friendly takeover”, further economic isolation, or a worsening humanitarian situation. Featuring expert analysis from ITV News US Correspondent Dan Rivers and Lillian Guerra, professor of Cuban and Caribbean history at the University of Florida, the video breaks down the political, military and economic factors shaping the relationship between Washington and Havana.
People in this episode
Host: Will Tullis
Guests: Dan Rivers, Lillian Guerra
Topics covered
- US-Cuba relations
- foreign policy
- economic crisis
- sanctions
- regime change
- humanitarian situation
Keywords
- Cuba
- Donald Trump
- foreign policy
- sanctions
- economic crisis
- regime change
- Havana
- US-Cuba hostility
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: ITV News
Places: Cuba, United States, Florida, Havana
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