US President Donald Trump has vowed to impose new tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba, escalating tensions between Washington and the communist-ruled island. The move comes as part of a broader pressure campaign aimed at curtailing Cuba's influence in the region.
Under an executive order declared under national emergency powers, Trump has authorized tariff threats against nations providing oil to Cuba. However, he has stopped short of specifying exact rates or targeting specific countries whose products may face US tariffs.
Cuba's government has responded strongly, warning that the move could cripple the island's fragile economy and essential services, including electricity generation, agriculture, water supply, and healthcare. The communist-run nation is already reeling from a severe economic crisis, with its president, Miguel Diaz-Canel, saying there are currently no talks with the US.
Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to crack down on Cuba, calling it "failing pretty soon." However, Venezuela, once Cuba's top oil supplier, has not provided oil or money to the island in recent months. Mexico, which supplies Cuba with most of its oil, is reportedly reviewing whether to continue sending shipments amid fears of US retaliation.
The tariff threat is part of a long-standing policy by Trump to use economic pressure as a tool of foreign policy. The move has raised concerns about the morality of Washington's actions, with Diaz-Canel accusing the US of lacking "moral authority" to force Cuba into an agreement.
The situation remains volatile, with tensions between the two nations at an all-time high.
Under an executive order declared under national emergency powers, Trump has authorized tariff threats against nations providing oil to Cuba. However, he has stopped short of specifying exact rates or targeting specific countries whose products may face US tariffs.
Cuba's government has responded strongly, warning that the move could cripple the island's fragile economy and essential services, including electricity generation, agriculture, water supply, and healthcare. The communist-run nation is already reeling from a severe economic crisis, with its president, Miguel Diaz-Canel, saying there are currently no talks with the US.
Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to crack down on Cuba, calling it "failing pretty soon." However, Venezuela, once Cuba's top oil supplier, has not provided oil or money to the island in recent months. Mexico, which supplies Cuba with most of its oil, is reportedly reviewing whether to continue sending shipments amid fears of US retaliation.
The tariff threat is part of a long-standing policy by Trump to use economic pressure as a tool of foreign policy. The move has raised concerns about the morality of Washington's actions, with Diaz-Canel accusing the US of lacking "moral authority" to force Cuba into an agreement.
The situation remains volatile, with tensions between the two nations at an all-time high.