Cuban Activists Push for Regime Change Amid U.S. Foreign Policy Shifts

In the wake of recent military actions in the Middle East, particularly against Iran, Cuban activists in South Florida are intensifying their calls for regime change in Cuba. Following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the destabilization of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, activists are urging the Trump administration to prioritize Cuba as the next target for intervention. Thousands participated in a recent caravan through Miami, advocating for a “maximum pressure” campaign against the Cuban government, which they label a “criminal enterprise.” A coalition of over 30 Cuban opposition organizations convened to sign a “Freedom Accord,” outlining a roadmap for transitioning Cuba to a democratic government.

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The White House has acknowledged the deteriorating situation in Cuba, with a spokesperson stating, “Cuba is a failing nation whose rulers have had a major setback with the loss of support from Venezuela.” Hialeah Mayor Bryan Calvo emphasized that constituents expected U.S. action in Cuba to precede any actions in Iran. He expressed hope for swift intervention, stating, “We have been waiting 67 years,” referring to the Cuban Revolution. In Tallahassee, GOP lawmakers are considering amendments to allow the governor to suspend trade restrictions with Cuba should the Trump administration take action against its leadership.

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While many Cuban-Americans support aggressive U.S. policies, there are concerns about the implications of such actions. GOP Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart noted that while a peaceful transition in Cuba is ideal, the recent fates of Maduro and Khamenei serve as cautionary tales. He stated, “The Cuban regime will not survive the second Trump term.” Additionally, some lawmakers are calling for accountability for Cuban leaders, including Raúl Castro, for past actions against dissidents.

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The push for regime change in Cuba is also influencing the political landscape in South Florida, where the Hispanic electorate is increasingly aligning with Republican values. Many constituents express gratitude for the Trump administration's stance against what they perceive as tyrannical regimes. GOP Rep. María Elvira Salazar remarked that the recent actions against Iran signal to Cuban leaders that they could be next. This sentiment is echoed by other Miami-area lawmakers, who advocate for a strong U.S. response to the Cuban government’s actions.

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• “There’s no reason to show them mercy, just as they haven’t shown mercy to the Cuban people,” — Alex Otaola, President of the Cuban Anticommunist Foundation

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• “should be on the top of that list.” — Hialeah Mayor Bryan Calvo

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• “It’s about time” — GOP Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart on constituents’ support for Trump’s actions.

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The situation remains fluid as activists and lawmakers continue to push for a decisive U.S. response to the Cuban regime, with many hopeful for significant changes in the near future.

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