Key facts
- President Trump vowed to address Cuba after the Iran conflict is settled.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be sent to Cuba to finalize a deal.
- Trump has increased pressure on Cuba, labeling it a 'failed state' and seeking to change its government.
- A US-imposed oil blockade has led to fuel shortages and blackouts in Cuba.
US President Donald Trump said on Friday that the United States would address Cuba after dealing with Iran, and would send Secretary of State Marco Rubio to finalize an agreement. Trump predicted last month that the US and Cuba would reach an accord without military action. The Trump administration has previously stated its goal is to change Cuba's communist government. A US-imposed oil blockade implemented earlier this year has put Cuba under severe strain as it contends with fuel shortages and blackouts exacerbated by failing infrastructure. Washington has maintained an embargo on Cuba for more than 60 years. Cuba's foreign minister stated last month that Cuba would always be open to dialogue with Washington.