What Does Stratfor Have To Say About The Improving U.S. And Cuba Relations?

Following the announcement that the United States and Cuba will take steps to normalize relations following decades of isolation, Stratfor commented that Cuba has much to gain from the process and that the implications could extend beyond Cuba's borders. In a post on Wednesday, Startfor argued that the move comes at a time when Cuba's regional partner and most important ally, Venezuela, faces “severe instability” including a declining economy. “While Cuba's rapprochement with the United States may not immediately change Caracas' relationship with Havana, Venezuela's mounting economic distress and potential for unrest may make it see Cuba's improved ties with the United States as a potential threat in the long run,” Stratfor argued. Stratfor adds that Venezuela may now have an “additional incentive” to seek its own rapprochement with the United States in what can be seen as a “the first step in a long process of reconciliation.” Bottom line, “Obama's announcement sets a clear goal for U.S. – Cuban relations, one that could have broader implications throughout the region.”