US tariff threat on Oil supplies deepens Cuba’s crisis

After tightening pressure on Venezuela, the United States has now turned its focus to Cuba through a new economic measure aimed at cutting off the island’s oil supplies. The move, described by Cuban officials as a “passive attack” meant to economically isolate the country , has sparked fears of a worsening humanitarian crisis.

US President Donald Trump announced that Washington would impose tariffs on any nation supplying oil to Cuba , calling the island a “failing nation.” The decision comes as Cuba faces severe fuel shortages, collapsing infrastructure and daily power outages .

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the measure as “fascist, criminal and genocidal,” accusing Washington of deliberately targeting civilians. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez called it an “extraordinary threat” and said Cuba would raise the issue internationally.

The announcement triggered concern among international partners. Mexico , now one of Cuba’s main fuel suppliers after Venezuelan shipments declined, said it would seek alternative ways to continue assistance and prevent a humanitarian emergency. President Claudia Sheinbaum indicated discussions were underway to understand the scope of the US order.

Energy experts warn that Cuba’s future depends on whether new shipments arrive soon. Diesel is the backbone of the Cuban economy, and without deliveries in the next four to eight weeks , the situation could become critical, according to analysts tracking tanker movements.

For ordinary Cubans, the impact is already visible. Rolling blackouts have disrupted work, transport and daily life, reviving memories of the “Special Period” economic collapse of the 1990s. Many residents say the new restrictions will only deepen suffering.

“This will not affect governments, it will affect people,” said one Havana street vendor, reflecting widespread frustration.

With tourism down, inflation rising and fuel supplies uncertain, Cuba fears the US strategy is designed to isolate the island diplomatically and economically rather than bring political change. As uncertainty grows, much of the country remains in darkness, waiting to see whether fuel and relief will arrive.