The United States has escalated its rhetoric against Cuba, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio declaring the communist-led island a national security threat due to its ties with US adversaries Russia and China. President Donald Trump has also suggested he is poised to be the president to finally take military action against Cuba.

Rubio's statements late on Thursday signal a significant hardening of US policy towards Cuba, aligning with the Trump administration's broader efforts to pressure Havana, which have included sanctions and a fuel blockade aimed at fostering regime change. The current administration, with Rubio often at the forefront, has intensified this pressure in recent days.

Rubio emphasized that the focus is on national security, not "nation building," and indicated that diplomatic avenues with Cuba are not a priority. He stated that Cuba's economic and political system is "broken" and that Havana cannot "wait us out or buy time," asserting the seriousness of the US stance.

President Trump separately commented that while US presidents have contemplated intervention in Cuba for decades, he anticipates being the one to act. He expressed willingness to do so, suggesting a potential shift in long-standing US foreign policy toward the island nation.

In response to the renewed threats, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez vehemently rejected Rubio's characterization of Cuba as a threat, accusing the US Secretary of State of lying to provoke military aggression that would result in bloodshed on both sides.

The heightened tensions follow a series of recent actions by the US, including the indictment of former Cuban President Raul Castro in connection with a 1996 plane downing. The US has also imposed further sanctions on the Cuban government and gathered military forces in the Caribbean.

Rubio's comments come after years of strained relations and a series of US sanctions and economic measures aimed at weakening the Cuban government. The administration's approach has been characterized by a strong stance against Cuba's communist system and its international alliances.

Questions remain about the specific nature of any potential military action and the broader geopolitical ramifications for the region. Cuba has historically maintained a strong defense posture, and any US military intervention would likely face significant resistance and international scrutiny.