President Donald Trump warned Cuba on Sunday 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's regime. Trump's statement, posted on his Truth Social platform, intensified pressure on Cuba, a long-standing U.S. adversary and key ally of Venezuela.
"THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA ZERO!" Trump wrote. "I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE." He did not elaborate on the specifics of the deal he envisioned.
Cuba has historically relied on Venezuela as its primary oil supplier, particularly since the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, which triggered a severe economic crisis on the island known as the "Special Period." In exchange for oil, Cuba has provided Venezuela with medical professionals, educators, and other forms of assistance, a relationship that has deepened under socialist governments in both countries.
The U.S. has maintained a trade embargo against Cuba for over six decades, initially imposed in response to the Cuban Revolution and the subsequent nationalization of American-owned businesses. This embargo has significantly impacted Cuba's economy, limiting its access to international markets and financial institutions.
The Trump administration has taken a particularly hard line on Cuba, reversing the Obama-era policy of engagement and tightening restrictions on travel and remittances. These measures are aimed at pressuring the Cuban government to improve its human rights record and embrace democratic reforms.
The potential disruption of Venezuelan oil supplies poses a significant challenge for Cuba, which is already grappling with economic difficulties. Shipping data indicates that no cargoes have left Venezuelan ports headed to Cuba since Maduro's capture last week, exacerbating the situation. The loss of Venezuelan support could further destabilize the Cuban economy and potentially lead to social unrest.
The Cuban government has yet to officially respond to Trump's latest warning. However, in the past, Cuban officials have consistently denounced U.S. sanctions as illegal and counterproductive, arguing that they violate international law and harm the Cuban people. The future of U.S.-Cuban relations remains uncertain, dependent on political developments in both countries and the evolving situation in Venezuela.
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