US Issues Tariff Order on Cuba Oil Supplies
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on January 29, 2026 authorising tariffs on goods from any country that sells or supplies oil to Cuba. The move is part of a broader U.S. effort to increase economic pressure on Cuba’s government, which Washington calls a threat to national security.
National Emergency Declared
The order declares a national emergency and allows the United States to impose additional duties on imports from countries that directly or indirectly provide oil to Cuba. It tasks U.S. officials with determining which countries qualify and how tariffs should be applied.
Targeting Cuba’s Energy Links
The policy is seen as targeting countries like Mexico, which has provided oil to Cuba after Venezuela cut off supplies. Mexican leaders say their oil decisions are sovereign and based on contracts or humanitarian reasons, not U.S. pressure. Cuba has faced a severe energy shortage, with declining oil reserves, leading to rationing of fuel and electricity.
Reaction and Regional Impact
Cuban officials condemned the order as coercive and harmful to Cuban citizens, warning that further restrictions could worsen shortages of basic services. The U.S. action adds to longstanding sanctions and reflects escalating tensions between the two nations.
