President Donald Trump has predicted that Cuba’s communist government could fall “fairly soon,” adding to growing speculation about Washington’s next steps toward the island. Speaking to reporters at the White House on November 9, Trump described Cuba as a “failing nation” and criticized its communist and socialist political system, even comparing its ideology to that of the Democratic Party. He also said the United States would provide humanitarian assistance to Cuba, while suggesting that the country’s political future could change in the near term. The remarks follow an October 23 statement in which Trump said Washington would address Cuba after dealing with Iran and suggested that Secretary of State Marco Rubio would play a central role. On the same day, Rubio publicly urged Cubans seeking political change to seize the opportunity through what he called a “discrete partnership with the CIA,” drawing international attention to the administration’s approach.

Rubio was questioned about the CIA outreach during his visit to Paris for the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting on November 9, but declined to say whether the appeal had generated any responses. “I wouldn't tell you if I had obtained any results from the CIA,” he said, adding that revealing such information could put the individuals involved at risk. His response neither confirmed nor denied that Cuban citizens had contacted the agency, and he provided no details about possible cooperation. The exchange leaves unanswered whether the public appeal has produced intelligence contacts or whether it is primarily part of Washington’s broader pressure campaign against Havana. Cuba continues to face serious economic challenges, including fuel shortages, power outages and shortages of essential goods, while its government has rejected what it describes as U.S. interference in its internal affairs. Although Trump’s prediction has intensified attention on the island, no confirmed change of government or timeline for a political transition has been announced.