President Donald Trump confirmed to Townhall that his administration is investigating reports that Cuba may possess Iranian-made drones, saying the United States will respond quickly if the claims prove to be true.
The issue has gained attention following an Axios report in May stating that Cuba now has roughly 300 drones. Last week, former Florida Governor Jeb Bush also raised concerns about possible cooperation between the Cuban government and Iran, warning that such a partnership could create a security challenge much closer to the United States. NBC 6 South Florida reported on Bush's remarks.
Asked by Townhall whether the reports were credible and whether military action against the communist-run island could become a possibility, Trump made clear that his administration is taking the matter seriously.
"Well, if they do have that, and they might very well have that, we'll take care of it... we'll take care of it in short order. We're not going to have a problem. We're not going to allow that to happen," the president said.
Trump also emphasized that the reports remain under review.
"It could be that they're storing some, we're looking into it now, it could be so, and it could be isn't. But we'll figure it out fast," he added.
While the administration investigates the drone reports, it is also increasing economic pressure on Havana.
Trump said U.S. will “take care of it in short order” when I asked about Iranian drones concerns.
Also asked about his address on Thursday night, but details are mostly under wraps as of now. @townhallcom pic.twitter.com/2CD7jYTfdu
— Cameron Arcand (@cameron_arcand) July 13, 2026
Earlier Monday, the State Department announced a new round of sanctions targeting Cuban entities. According to the department, the measures are intended to cut off sources of revenue that sustain the Cuban government while also targeting organizations allegedly involved in what it described as a campaign of violent repression against the Cuban people.
The sanctions come as Cuba continues to struggle with a worsening energy crisis. Rolling blackouts have become a recurring problem across the island, reflecting ongoing fuel shortages and broader challenges facing the country's electrical grid.
The Trump administration has argued that a path toward relief exists if Cuba is willing to negotiate.
"As the President stated, Cuba is a failed country that has been horribly run for many years. The U.S. will be there to be help, but its flailing leaders should make a deal with the United States before it is too late," a senior administration official told Townhall last week.
A State Department spokesperson echoed that position, telling Townhall that humanitarian assistance is available but alleging that President Miguel Díaz-Canel's government has delayed approving its delivery.
"The Trump Administration has offered the regime clear options to receive humanitarian assistance delivered through appropriate channels and fuel if they privatize the energy industry," the spokesperson said.