US President Donald Trump stated that he expects to have "the honor of taking Cuba," as the island nation faces electricity shortages caused by the American oil blockade.

"I've been hearing about the US and Cuba my whole life. When are the United States going to do something? I believe I will have the honor of taking Cuba. Whether I liberate it or take it, I think I can do whatever I want with it. They are currently a very weakened nation," Trump stated.

Shortly after his statement, according to four sources, US officials demanded that Cuba remove President Miguel Díaz-Canel during recent negotiations.

The US is increasing pressure on Cuba following the January removal of Venezuelan President Maduro, who was Havana's most important allied supporter. Trump cut off Venezuelan oil deliveries to Cuba and threatened tariffs against any country that sells oil to Cuba.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whose parents are Cuban immigrants, has long been explicit about his desire for regime change in Havana. Trump previously called for a "friendly takeover," but recently stated: "Maybe it won't be a friendly takeover."