Trump Expects U.S.-Cuba Deal, Says Military Unneeded

U.S. President Donald Trump said he expects the United States and Cuba to reach an agreement and does not believe military action will be needed. His remarks to reporters at the White House on Saturday were an expression of expectation, not an announcement that negotiations have begun or a deal has been reached. Trump said the United States wants to help Cuba and open the island to Cuban Americans, according to reports of his comments. His administration has also stated that it seeks a change in Cuba’s government and has maintained pressure on Havana. The sources describe an oil blockade imposed earlier this year, as well as sanctions targeting Cuban nickel reserves and military-owned enterprises. Cuba has faced fuel shortages and blackouts, which the reports link to the blockade and deteriorating infrastructure. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez separately said at the United Nations that Cuba remains open to dialogue with the United States and to commercial relationships with American companies. He also condemned the U.S. trade embargo, which has been in place for more than 60 years.