Rubio Joins Caribbean Summit to Discuss Donroe Doctrine
Foreign Policy
by Alexandra SharpFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio joined Caribbean leaders at a summit in St. Kitts and Nevis to address concerns over the Donroe Doctrine and its impact on the region. The gathering focused on resetting U.S.-Caribbean relations, with leaders expressing worries about the spillover effects of the U.S. oil embargo on Cuba. Many fear that Washington’s tough stance could lead to devastating humanitarian and economic consequences in the Caribbean.
The summit, attended by 15-nation bloc members and five associate states, aimed to tackle pressing issues like U.S. policy’s regional impact. While some leaders have praised American military actions, others are deeply concerned about prolonged intervention. A key issue is Washington’s pressure on Cuba, which has led to severe shortages in energy, healthcare, and transportation. Trump’s Donroe Doctrine, highlighted in his State of the Union address, seeks to promote U.S. interests but has left Cuba struggling with a growing crisis.
Caribbean leaders are particularly worried about the ripple effects of the U.S. oil embargo on Cuba. The White House’s tariff threats have forced Cuba to ration energy and suspend essential services, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. However, recent Treasury Department guidelines suggest a slight easing of restrictions, allowing companies to apply for licenses to sell Venezuelan oil to Cuba for commercial and humanitarian purposes. This move could provide some relief but still limits transactions involving Cuban military or government institutions.
The summit’s discussions underscore the delicate balance between U.S. policy and regional stability. While leaders aim to reset relations, they remain cautious about the long-term implications of continued intervention. The Donroe Doctrine’s focus on U.S. interests has left Caribbean nations grappling with economic uncertainty and potential instability. These talks highlight the importance of collaboration between the U.S. and the Caribbean to address shared challenges while safeguarding regional security and prosperity.
This matters because it shapes the future of U.S.-Caribbean relations, which are critical for both hemispheric stability and global diplomacy. The summit’s outcome will influence how these nations navigate shared interests and differing priorities in an increasingly complex international landscape.
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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/25/2026