Key Details
Senate Democrats attempted a procedural vote on a resolution to prevent President Trump from launching a military attack on Cuba. Republicans blocked the vote, arguing the US is not engaged in hostilities with Cuba.
- Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) called the issue "moot."
- The resolution, introduced by Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) in March, is part of broader Democratic efforts to limit presidential military authority.
- This is the latest in a series of votes on restricting military action; previous votes on Venezuela and Iran were similarly blocked by Republicans.
Statements
- Senator Tim Kaine stated he has not heard suggestions that Cuba poses an imminent security threat to the US.
- President Trump has suggested military action against Cuba, saying after Iran, "we may stop by Cuba."
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified in January that the administration would like to see regime change in Cuba, and has not ruled out military action.
"We may stop by Cuba."
Background
- The US captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January.
- The Trump administration has imposed an oil blockade on Cuba.
- Diplomatic talks continue; a US State Department delegation visited Cuba earlier this month, the first such visit since 2016.
- A State Department official said President Trump prefers diplomacy but will not allow Cuba to become a national security threat.