President Donald Trump said Saturday that he expects the United States and Cuba to reach an agreement, signaling that negotiations could provide a path forward as his administration seeks major political changes on the island.

Speaking to reporters at the White House before departing for Tennessee, Trump said military force is unlikely to be necessary. “I would say that Cuba and us will make a deal. I don’t think we’ll need the military,” he said.

The administration has previously made clear that its broader objective is to change Cuba’s government. Washington has also increased economic pressure on Havana, including an oil blockade imposed earlier this year. That pressure has contributed to worsening conditions in Cuba, which is grappling with fuel shortages, recurring blackouts, and infrastructure problems.

Despite the pressure campaign, Trump said the United States wants to assist the Cuban people and expand American engagement with the island. “We want to help Cuba,” he said. “We want to open Cuba up to our people.”

Trump also addressed Cuba during his speech to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, when he characterized the country as a failed state and said freedom would be coming to the island. The Cuban delegation protested by leaving the General Assembly hall during his address.

Trump’s latest comments indicate the administration is leaving the door open to a diplomatic resolution while continuing to demand significant political changes from Havana.