Trump's Cuba Takeover: A New Era for the Island?

0:00This is Corey, and this episode is brought to you by NordVPN, fast, reliable online privacy. Links in the episode description. Here's what's making news across the UK right now. President Trump has floated the idea of a friendly takeover of Cuba amid skyrocketing tensions with Havana. This follows the U.S. capture of Venezuela's Nicola Maduro back in January, which is left Cuba's economy in freefall. Trump noted that Cuban leaders are now in talks with U.S. officials because the island has no money or resources left. American pressure ramped up with a full oil blockade, and Venezuela's new acting president cut off fuel exports to Cuba, worsening the crisis. Cuban exiles and places like Miami are thrilled at the prospect, with many eager to return home after decades away. Still, some fear revives old memories of U.S. economic dominance that sparked the 1959 revolution. Experts like history professor Manuel Barcia predict Cuba's big turning point could be near, comparing it to the Berlin Walls fall.

1:04Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio gets credit for orchestrating the Venezuela take down. Just days ago, armed exiles from Florida attempted a weapons landing on Cuba's north coast, sparking a deadly sea gunfight that killed four and injured seven. As negotiations continue under this mounting strain, change feels closer than ever for the island nation.