U
.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday threatened to impose new tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba, escalating Washington’s pressure campaign against the Communist-run island amid its worsening economic crisis.
The move, authorized through an executive order declaring a national emergency, allows the United States to levy tariffs on imports from nations that “directly or indirectly” provide oil to Cuba. The order does not specify tariff rates or name countries that could be targeted.
The White House said the measure was necessary to protect U.S. national security and foreign policy interests, citing Cuba’s alleged ties to hostile states and armed groups. Trump has increasingly relied on tariff threats as a tool of foreign policy during his second term.
Cuban state media swiftly condemned the decision, warning it could cripple electricity generation, agriculture, water supply, and health services. In a televised statement, the Cuban government accused Washington of seeking to “suffocate all spheres of life” on the island, which is already facing severe fuel shortages and widespread blackouts.
Trump’s latest move follows the U.S. military’s seizure earlier this month of ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, after which Washington blocked Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba. Venezuela had long been the island’s main energy supplier.
Mexico has since emerged as Cuba’s largest remaining oil provider, though Reuters reported last week that Mexican officials are reviewing whether to continue shipments amid concerns over possible U.S. retaliation.
Trump said earlier this week that “Cuba will be failing pretty soon,” adding that it was no longer receiving oil or financial support from Venezuela. He has also urged Havana to strike a deal with Washington.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel rejected the suggestion, saying the United States had no moral authority to impose terms on the island.
(Source: Reuters)
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