U.S. President Donald J. Trump has sharply escalated pressure on Cuba, declaring that Havana will no longer benefit from Venezuelan oil shipments or financial support unless it agrees to a negotiated settlement with Washington. The president’s message was posted on his Truth Social platform Sunday, with a warning that time is running out for Cuban leaders to act.
The National
🔹 No More Venezuelan Oil or Funds:
Trump stated that all deliveries of Venezuelan crude and money to Cuba will stop — bluntly adding “zero” will flow unless a deal is struck with the U.S. government. He framed the move as a fundamental shift in U.S. policy toward Havana following recent developments in Venezuela.
Business Today
🔹 Historical Context:
For decades, Cuba has depended heavily on subsidized oil from Venezuela, which helped keep its economy afloat despite longstanding U.S. sanctions. Trump asserts this dynamic has come to an end as Caracas moves into the U.S. sphere of influence after the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
The National
🔹 What Trump Said:
In his post, the president said Cuba had received “large amounts of money and oil” from Venezuela in return for various services, but stressed that era is over. He urged Cuban officials to engage with the U.S. “before it is too late.”
The National
🔹 Regional and Economic Fallout:
Analysts warn that cutting off Cuba from Venezuelan support could further strain an economy already coping with shortages, blackouts, and declining output — and potentially trigger broader unrest. The move comes amid sweeping changes in the U.S.–Latin America geopolitical landscape.
Business Today
🔹 Cuba’s Response:
Although not detailed in all reports, Cuban officials have described such U.S. actions as coercive and in violation of their sovereignty, rejecting any notion that the island should be pressured into a deal.
South China Morning Post
🌍 This development marks one of the most serious diplomatic escalations between Washington and Havana in years — with implications for energy politics, U.S.–Caribbean relations, and Cuba’s already fragile economy.
