President Donald J. Trump has declared a "national emergency" in response to what he describes as an "unusual and extraordinary threat" posed by the Cuban government to U.S. national security. He has also warned of imposing tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba.
Signed on January 29 at the White House, this order represents a heightened level of pressure on the Cuban regime and could lead to immediate repercussions for the Caribbean nation, worsening its current economic crisis.
The primary aim of this executive order is to economically suffocate the communist regime in Havana by restricting its access to energy and financial resources. Any nation providing oil to Cuba may face "additional tariffs" on their exports to the United States, even if done indirectly.
This strategy intends to halt fuel shipments to the island, a move that could exacerbate the severe energy crisis characterized by prolonged blackouts and transportation shortages.
Beyond the economic ramifications, this decision also intensifies Cuba's diplomatic isolation.
The White House accuses Miguel Díaz-Canel's regime of aligning with entities hostile to the United States, including Russia, China, Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas, while providing sanctuary to transnational terrorist groups.
By warning that countries collaborating with Havana will face sanctions, Washington aims to sever international ties that sustain the Cuban system and deter new strategic alliances.
The presidential directive also enhances direct oversight of Cuban government activities.
The State Department and the Department of Commerce are tasked with monitoring any energy transactions involving Cuba and recommending further actions if current sanctions prove ineffective. This could lead to future trade or diplomatic restrictions.
Domestically, the Cuban population may experience immediate consequences.
The scarcity of fuel and reduced foreign trade could lead to higher prices, increased transportation difficulties, and a decline in basic services.
The Trump administration maintains that the measure targets the regime, not the Cuban people, with the intent to "support the Cuban people's aspirations for a free and democratic society."
Former Assistant Secretary of State Yleen Poblete noted that the national emergency declaration regarding Cuba is a continuation of the one issued on March 1, 1996, after Cuban jets downed two U.S. humanitarian aircraft, killing three American citizens and one permanent resident.
This emergency has been extended annually by successive presidents, including the latest renewal signed by Trump on February 24, 2025. The new aspect of the document is the introduction of tariffs against countries selling or supplying oil to the Cuban regime.
Understanding the Implications of U.S. Sanctions on Cuba
What is the goal of the U.S. national emergency declaration against Cuba?
The declaration aims to economically isolate the Cuban regime by restricting its access to oil and financial resources, thereby pressuring the government to change its policies.
How will the tariffs affect countries that supply oil to Cuba?
Countries that provide oil to Cuba, even indirectly, may face additional tariffs on their exports to the United States, which could discourage them from engaging in trade with the Cuban government.
What impact might the U.S. sanctions have on the Cuban population?
The Cuban population could face immediate challenges such as increased prices, transportation difficulties, and a decline in essential services due to the reduced availability of fuel and foreign trade.