Donald Trump told Cuba to "make a deal" or face unspecified consequences, asserting that the flow of Venezuelan oil and money to the island would cease following the anticipated fall of Nicolás Maduro. The former U.S. president issued the warning on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, stating, "THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE." He did not elaborate on the specifics of the potential agreement.

Trump's statement comes as Cuba, a long-time ally of Venezuela, braces for potential instability in the wake of Maduro's possible removal from power. Venezuela has been a crucial economic partner for Cuba, particularly as its primary supplier of oil. However, U.S. sanctions have tightened around Venezuela's oil industry, impacting its ability to export crude. Shipping data indicates that no oil tankers have departed Venezuelan ports for Cuba since Maduro's capture last week.

The relationship between the United States and Cuba has been fraught with tension since the Cuban Revolution in 1959, which led to the establishment of a communist state under Fidel Castro. The U.S. imposed a trade embargo on Cuba in 1962, which remains in effect today, though some restrictions have been eased and tightened over the decades. Cuba has historically relied on support from other communist or socialist states, including the Soviet Union during the Cold War and, more recently, Venezuela.

The potential loss of Venezuelan oil would pose a significant challenge to the Cuban economy, which already faces shortages of basic goods and economic hardship. The Trump administration had previously tightened sanctions on Cuba, reversing the Obama administration's efforts to normalize relations between the two countries. These measures included restrictions on travel and remittances, further squeezing the Cuban economy.

The international community is closely watching the situation in Venezuela and its potential impact on Cuba. The future of U.S.-Cuba relations remains uncertain, dependent on developments in both Venezuela and the willingness of both countries to engage in negotiations. The Cuban government has not yet issued an official response to Trump's statement.