As Trump ramps up pressure on Cuba, China has ‘very limited options’

Any response from Beijing is likely to be constrained to diplomatic opposition and humanitarian aid, according to analysts3-MIN READ3-MIN14 ListenPublished: 8:00pm, 18 Mar 2026As Washington steps up rhetoric and pressure on Cuba after its campaign in Iran, Beijing finds itself torn between geopolitical reality and ideological affinity.According to analysts, Beijing has few good options to counter US hegemony in Washington’s own backyard, and its response is likely to be constrained to diplomatic opposition and modest humanitarian aid.They said any disruption to global stability ultimately harmed Beijing’s interests and did not see prolonged US military action creating a window of opportunity for China.US President Donald Trump on Monday said he expected to have “the honour of taking Cuba”, after a tightening US oil squeeze contributed to widespread blackouts across the island.“All my life I’ve been hearing about the United States and Cuba. When will the United States do it?” Trump told reporters at the White House, adding he could do “anything I want” with Cuba.00:58Trump vows to ‘take’ Cuba as island reels from total power cut linked to oil embargoTrump vows to ‘take’ Cuba as island reels from total power cut linked to oil embargoIn an apparent escalation in Washington’s pressure campaign against the long-time adversary, The New York Times reported shortly after Trump’s remarks that US officials had recently told Havana it should remove President Miguel Diaz-Canel.