Former U.S. President Donald Trump urged Cuba to "make a deal" or face consequences, stating that the flow of Venezuelan oil and money to the island would cease. Trump's statement, posted on Truth Social on Sunday, referenced the recent U.S. operation in Venezuela that resulted in the seizure of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

Trump asserted that Cuba had long relied on Venezuelan oil and financial support in exchange for providing security services to Venezuelan leaders. "Cuba lived, for many years, on large amounts of OIL and MONEY from Venezuela. In return, Cuba provided 'Security Services' for the last two Venezuelan dictators, BUT NOT ANYMORE!" he wrote. He did not specify the terms of the deal he suggested Cuba should make, nor did he detail the potential consequences of failing to do so. "THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA - ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE," Trump added.

Venezuela, a long-standing ally of Cuba, has been estimated to send approximately 35,000 barrels of oil per day to the island. This arrangement has been a crucial lifeline for Cuba's economy, particularly in light of U.S. sanctions. The U.S. has historically maintained an embargo against Cuba, which has significantly impacted the island's economic development.

The Cuban government has yet to officially respond to Trump's statement. However, it has previously condemned the U.S. operation in Venezuela, stating that 32 Cuban nationals were killed during the raid. Cuba has for years supplied Maduro with his personal security detail.

The implications of Trump's warning remain unclear. Experts suggest that a cessation of Venezuelan oil shipments could severely impact Cuba's energy sector and overall economy. The potential consequences for Cuba could include increased economic hardship, further straining its relationship with the United States. The situation is developing, and further statements from both the U.S. and Cuban governments are anticipated.