President Donald Trump warned Cuba on Sunday to "make a deal" or face unspecified consequences, stating that the flow of Venezuelan oil and money to the island would cease following the anticipated fall of Nicolás Maduro's regime in Venezuela. Trump's statement, posted on his Truth Social platform, intensified pressure on Cuba, a long-time ally of Venezuela and a significant recipient of its oil exports. "THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA ZERO!" Trump wrote, adding, "I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE."
The U.S. president did not elaborate on the specifics of the "deal" he proposed. His statement came as Cuba braced for potential instability in the wake of Maduro's potential removal from power.
Venezuela has been Cuba's primary oil supplier, but U.S. sanctions have severely disrupted these shipments. Shipping data indicates that no cargoes have departed Venezuelan ports for Cuba since Maduro's capture last week, according to reports.
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 largely in place today. While President Barack Obama initiated a thaw in relations, including the restoration of diplomatic ties in 2015, President Trump reversed many of these policies, tightening restrictions on trade and travel.
Cuba's reliance on Venezuelan oil has been crucial for its economy, particularly in the face of the U.S. embargo. Venezuela, under Hugo Chávez and later Nicolás Maduro, provided Cuba with oil at preferential rates in exchange for Cuban doctors and other professionals. This arrangement has been a lifeline for the Cuban economy, which has struggled with shortages and economic challenges.
The potential loss of Venezuelan support could have significant implications for Cuba, potentially exacerbating existing economic difficulties and leading to social unrest. The Trump administration has consistently criticized Cuba's support for Maduro's government, viewing it as a destabilizing force in the region.
The Cuban government has not yet issued an official response to Trump's statement. The future of U.S.-Cuba relations remains uncertain, dependent on developments in Venezuela and the willingness of both countries to engage in negotiations. The international community is closely watching the situation, with many countries urging a peaceful resolution to the political crisis in Venezuela and a constructive dialogue between the U.S. and Cuba.
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