Bitcoin fell sharply on February 27 as geopolitical tensions intensified, pulling the price back to around $65,200 after several days of attempts to recover toward $70,000. The drop came as US President Donald Trump suggested the possibility of a “friendly takeover” of Cuba, while Washington simultaneously increased its military posture in Israel.
The combined headlines injected fresh uncertainty into global markets. Crypto, which had been stabilizing, reacted quickly.
Trump on Cuba: “Maybe We Will Do a Friendly Takeover”
Speaking earlier today, Trump said the Cuban government is “in big trouble” and “talking with us,” adding that the US could pursue a “friendly takeover.” He framed Cuba as financially desperate and open to negotiation.
The comment follows weeks of mounting pressure. Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump reinstated and expanded maximum pressure policies against Havana.
In late January 2026, he signed an executive order declaring a national emergency related to Cuba and threatening tariffs on any country supplying oil to the island.
That move effectively created an oil blockade. Cuba relies heavily on Venezuelan and Mexican fuel. When shipments were halted under US pressure, the island faced rolling blackouts, airport fuel shortages, and widespread economic strain.
Tensions intensified further this week after a deadly maritime incident. Cuban forces intercepted a US-registered speedboat near their territorial waters. Four people were killed in the exchange.
Havana described the group as armed infiltrators. Washington denied involvement but launched investigations.