Former US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on any country providing oil shipments to Cuba, a declaration that compounds the Caribbean island’s existing economic fragility marked by profound power outages and shortages. The announcement, made late Thursday, immediately generated widespread anguish among Cuban citizens already struggling under increased United States sanctions, according to reports from Havana.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel denounced the measure on X, labeling it "fascist, criminal and genocidal" and accusing the former US administration of hijacking American interests for personal objectives. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez described the action as an "unusual and extraordinary threat," further escalating diplomatic tensions surrounding energy security in the region.
Venezuela, a traditional key oil ally for Havana, swiftly condemned the potential tariffs, asserting they violate tenets of international commerce and law. Mexico, which has recently become a critical supplier following US sanctions against Venezuela, is reportedly evaluating alternatives to maintain fuel flow and avert a humanitarian crisis, as stated by President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Energy analysts underscore the critical nature of diesel supply, calling it the "backbone of the Cuban economy." Jorge Piñon of the University of Texas Energy Institute noted that if no new tankers arrive within the next four to eight weeks, the situation will become dire, particularly since China cannot directly supply oil and Russia remains a complicated partner due to existing sanctions.
For ordinary Cubans, the policy change directly impacts daily survival, forcing comparisons to the severe economic contraction of the 1990s known as the “Special Period.” Citizens interviewed expressed deep concern that further restrictions on fuel imports will disproportionately harm the population rather than the government apparatus.
Cuba’s average daily power demand hovers near 3,000 megawatts, often receiving only half that capacity due to fuel deficits and aging infrastructure. The ongoing blackouts impede essential services and economic activity, such as small businesses reliant on consistent power for operations.
Geopolitically, the tariff threat forces sovereign nations to weigh compliance with US policy against humanitarian concerns and established trade relationships with Havana. The reaction from Mexico and potential involvement from Russia will dictate the immediate severity of the energy shortfall in the coming months.
