Trump, Rubio call for new Cuban leaders as latest blackout underscores deepening economic crisis - AP News

President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are calling for a change of leadership in Cuba as the island nation grapples with a severe economic crisis marked by widespread power outages. A recent blackout has become a visible symbol of Cuba's deteriorating infrastructure and mounting economic troubles, which have driven migration pressures and regional instability. The Trump administration's public calls for new Cuban leadership reflect a hardline stance toward the Castro-era government and represent a shift in U.S. policy toward the island. Cuba's economic collapse has been fueled by fuel shortages, aging power plants, and the impact of U.S. sanctions, creating a humanitarian crisis that affects millions of Cubans. The rhetoric signals the Trump administration intends to maintain pressure on Havana while signaling support for internal opposition to the current government.