U.S. Escalates Pressure on Cuba with Oil Tariffs Amid Energy Crisis

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 30TH JAN 2026 | www.demodemagazine.com

The United States has significantly intensified its campaign against Cuba by targeting its energy lifelines, dramatically escalating tensions with the island. President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency and authorising steep tariffs on any nation that continues to supply oil to Havana, formalising an expanding energy blockade. The move follows U.S. military operations in Venezuela that effectively cut off Venezuela’s oil shipments to Cuba, a key source of fuel for the island’s economy.

With Mexico, Cuba’s largest remaining supplier, reducing deliveries under pressure, Cuba’s oil reserves are critically low, sparking widespread blackouts and threatening basic services. Analysts warn that continued energy shortages could push the country toward economic collapse and a humanitarian crisis. The White House insists the actions are necessary to counter national security threats posed by Cuba’s government, while Havana’s leadership remains defiant, condemning the measures as coercive and harmful to ordinary Cubans.