Respecting each country’s ability to make their own sovereign independent decisions is a principle of international law enshrined in the United Nations Charter. President Donald Trump’s agenda of interference in the internal affairs of the Cuban government, especially since January 2026, has been an extension of his eagerness to violate the sovereignty of peoples around the world—Canada, Gaza, Venezuela, Mexico, Iran, Greenland, and Denmark, among others. It must be repudiated by every means possible.
Violation of another nation’s sovereignty during peacetime destroys goodwill and leads to mistrust between governments. Of course, it’s no surprise that Trump would pursue such a path in foreign affairs. He’s constantly sowing mistrust between the people of the U.S. and their own government here at home, so of course he extends it abroad.
To build opposition to Trumpism, we must take a clue from our Cuban neighbor.
The relationship between Cuba and the United States is long and complex. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio poisons the atmosphere with nonsense, calling Cuba a “failed state” and emphasizing “necessary regime change,” Cuba has credibility in the eyes of the world. Such adventurist suggestions have no place in a world more interdependent and interconnected through science, technological advance, and environmental challenges. The old world order is outdated and unworkable.
The scope of imperial arrogance is magnified, though, by a complacent Congress unaccountable to its constituents. Groveling before a convicted felon twice-impeached by his political peers is a risky proposition when you still have to face the voters. Trump has proven time after time he is incapable of carrying out the duties of his office and provide leadership for the benefit of the 99% at home and around the world, so why would Cuba policy be any different?
For many years, the Cuban people have extended their hospitality and generosity to all visitors without conditions attached. Yet, because they chose their own independent political path, the U.S. government imposed an illegal, criminal blockade and sanctions for more than 65 years. This was punishment for Cuba and served as a warning to other nations to keep their distance.
Cuba’s response? The country continues offering its hands in peace and friendship to discuss differences in a diplomatic setting in an open manner.
At this moment in history, solidarity with the Cuban people is more necessary than ever.
Cubans are at peace with the world; they are not a threat to U.S. national security. Creative resistance, unity of action, revolutionary patience, and collective security enable the Cuban people to survive, endure, and overcome difficulties against all odds. However, the energy blockade puts their right to self-determination at risk.
As Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has asserted, “It is not in the concept of revolutionaries to surrender.” The best option to resolve differences is to resume diplomatic negotiations on equal footing rather than exchanging hostilities.
Cuba’s medical program offers professional healthcare services to needy countries when invited by other governments that lack adequate infrastructure. Their hurricane preparedness model and national anti-drug policy are acknowledged worldwide. Our countries have an opportunity to learn from each other. The possibility to open doors shuttered by stereotypes and isolation can dispel misunderstanding due to fear and ignorance.
Cuba is not the enemy.
The American people have a vital role to play during this critical period. There is not one single model of democracy that fits all needs. What will be remembered is who initiated the conversation first by holding out their hand in friendship.
The surest way to save our freedom is to fight to preserve our right to vote. Call, write, or email Congress to lift the U.S. blockade of Cuba and overturn the phony U.S. designation of Cuba as “state sponsor of terrorism.” A better world is possible.
As with all op-eds published by People’s World, the views reflected here are those of the author.
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