Journalists emphasize that the proposed measure represents a new stage of escalation, especially in light of Trump's recent statement about the intention to halt Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba, which is one of the main sources of raw materials for the island. In early January, the U.S. president also expressed on social media that "Cuba will no longer receive any oil, money - nothing! I strongly recommend they make a deal before it’s too late."
Cuba, for its part, continues to face a severe energy crisis. In the fall of 2024, the island experienced widespread power outages, and residents lined up in long queues at gas stations and stores. The country's economy, weakened by years of U.S. sanctions, finds itself in the most serious situation it has faced in decades.
Venezuela has been supplying Cuba with oil at preferential prices for many years. In return, the Cuban government sends doctors, sports coaches, and security specialists to Venezuela. Discussions of new U.S. restrictions on oil supplies are linked to increasing pressure on Caracas and changing supply conditions, which could further exacerbate Cuba's situation.
