Florida (TDI): US President Donald Trump has issued sharp warnings to the leaders of Mexico, Cuba, and Colombia, suggesting they could face heightened US pressure, just days after American forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, Trump defended the US operation in Venezuela as a necessary step to restore regional stability and protect American security interests.
However, his remarks soon shifted to harsh criticism of neighboring governments, which he accused of failing to curb crime, corruption, and cross-border threats.
Trump reserved his strongest words for Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of allowing drug cartels to gain influence across parts of the country.
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In blunt remarks, Trump warned Petro to “watch his back,” alleging that Colombia had become a major source of drugs entering the United States.
Turning to Mexico, Trump questioned President Claudia Sheinbaum’s authority, claiming organized crime has eclipsed the state’s power. While referring to her as a “good woman,” he warned that “something’s going to have to be done;” comments that quickly drew criticism from Mexican officials.
Trump also targeted Cuba, describing it as a “failing nation” and suggesting its close relationship with Venezuela could make Havana the focus of renewed US pressure. He said ordinary Cubans had suffered for years under communist rule, hinting at a tougher stance ahead.
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Backing Trump’s remarks, US secretary of state Marco Rubio echoed concerns over Cuba’s ties with Venezuela, saying officials in Havana should be “concerned at least a little bit.”
Trump framed Washington’s broader approach to Latin America as part of a strategy to reassert US dominance in the region and secure access to vital resources, particularly energy supplies he described as critical to American interest.
Trump’s comments triggered swift official backlash across the region. Mexico’s government condemned the US action as an attack on Venezuelan sovereignty and urged Washington to halt what it described as hostile actions that risk escalating tensions across Latin America.
