Why Maduro’s capture is such a major crisis for Cuba

Published January 6, 2026 6:00am ET



The political situation in Venezuela is uncertain. President Donald Trump suggests Venezuela’s new president, Delcy Rodriguez, will cooperate with the United States. Perhaps, perhaps not. But the initiative is clearly with the Trump administration. Dictator President Nicolas Maduro was dancing carefree in Caracas a week ago. Today, thanks to a stunning military operation, Maduro is occupying a New York City prison cell. Maduro’s inner circle must be wondering if they are next.

But the Venezuelan elites aren’t the only ones likely to be sleeping with one eye open. After all, Cuba also now has a big problem. As Secretary of State Marco Rubio put it, “If I lived in Havana, and I was in the government, I’d be concerned, at least a little bit.”

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