Speaking to the press at the Miami Homestead Airport on Thursday, the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio delivered a stark assessment of global security threats, focusing heavily on the “failed state” of Cuba just 90 miles from American shores, while addressing rising tensions with Iran and frustrations with NATO allies.
The wide-ranging remarks underscored the administration’s “America First” approach to foreign policy, emphasizing national security and direct threats to the United States over broader international obligations.
The Threat from Havana
Rubio, standing mere miles from the Cuban coast, painted a grim picture of the island nation, describing it as a persistent national security threat and a “failed state” run by friends of American adversaries.
He pointed to the presence of Russian and Chinese intelligence operations in Cuba, as well as the regime’s history of supporting destabilizing groups in the region, such as those in Colombia.
“Cuba has consistently posed a threat to the national security of the United States,” Rubio stated. “And the other thing that poses a threat to national security of the United States is to have a failed state 90 miles from our shores run by friends of our adversaries.”
The Secretary of State also addressed the issue of humanitarian aid, revealing that the U.S. has offered $100 million in assistance but is withholding distribution to ensure it does not fall into the hands of GAESA, the Cuban military’s economic conglomerate. 
Rubio accused GAESA of hoarding $18 billion in assets while the Cuban people suffer, stating that the U.S. is working with the Catholic Church and other NGOs to distribute aid directly to those in need.
When pressed on the possibility of using military force to achieve political change in Cuba, Rubio reiterated the administration’s preference for a diplomatic solution but left all options on the table.
“The President always has the option to do whatever it takes to support and protect the national interest and the national security of the United States,” he said.
Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz
Turning to the Middle East, Rubio strongly condemned Iran’s reported attempts to formalize a tolling system for the Strait of Hormuz with Oman. He called the proposal unacceptable,” “completely illegal,” and a “threat to the world.”
The U.S. is currently pushing a resolution in the United Nations Security Council, sponsored by Bahrain, to condemn the tolling system.
Rubio noted that the resolution has garnered the highest number of co- sponsors in the history of the Security Council, including support from China.While acknowledging some progress in ongoing negotiations with Iran, Rubio cautioned against over-optimism, citing the fractured nature of the Iranian system.
He emphasized that while the President prefers a “good deal,” other options remain available if diplomacy fails.
Frustrations with NATO
Rubio also addressed reports that the U.S. might reduce its contribution to the NATO Force Model. While declining to confirm specific changes to U.S. posture, he expressed the administration’s deep disappointment with NATO allies, particularly regarding their reluctance to confront Iran. “The President is very disappointed at NATO right now,” Rubio said.
He questioned the value of the alliance if member countries, such as Spain, deny the U.S. the use of bases needed to project power in regions like the Middle East.
Rubio contrasted the U.S. willingness to act against the Iranian threat with the inaction of European allies. “If all these countries around the world agree with us that Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon… we’re actually stepping forward to do something about it, and everyone goes into hiding,” he remarked.
Ebola and Global Health
On the topic of the recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rubio defended the administration’s decision to restrict travel from affected areas, prioritizing the protection of the American people above all else.
He criticized the World Health Organization (WHO) for being “a little late” in identifying the strain and reiterated the U.S. decision to withdraw from the organization, citing its failures during the COVID-19 pandemic.Despite the withdrawal, Rubio stated that the U.S. is providing support to the DRC and neighboring countries, including funding for clinics, to help contain the outbreak.
Looking Ahead
The Secretary’s remarks set the stage for upcoming diplomatic engagements, including a foreign ministers meeting to discuss NATO issues and a trip to India, where the U.S. hopes to expand energy exports and strengthen ties with the Quad alliance.
As the administration navigates these complex global challenges, Rubio’s message was clear: the United States will prioritize its own security, interests, demanding more from its allies taking a hard line against its adversaries.
