US pressure on Cuba has intensified following the January 2026 capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, with President Trump publicly stating that “Cuba is next” and floating options such as stationing naval assets off the island. The administration has issued executive orders declaring a national emergency, imposed new sanctions on Cuban officials and foreign oil suppliers, and increased reconnaissance flights near Cuban territory while advancing Pentagon contingency planning. Cuba has responded with nationwide defense drills and rejected demands to alter its political system, even as it confronts severe fuel shortages, blackouts, and domestic protests. Senior US officials have indicated no imminent operation is underway, though military options remain available; congressional resolutions seeking prior authorization for force have not advanced, leaving room for further diplomatic or economic measures in the coming months.