Cuba-US Relations: Cuba’s Message to Washington

Washington.-Former President Donald Trump on Sunday threatened to halt the flow of venezuelan oil and money to Cuba, escalating tensions with Havana and demanding a resolution regarding the detention of ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, cilia Flores.

Cuban Oil Supply at Risk as Trump Issues Stark Warning

The former president’s ultimatum comes amid a complex geopolitical landscape and Cuba’s increasing reliance on Venezuelan support.

• Trump warned Cuba that continued support for Maduro and Flores will result in the cessation of Venezuelan oil and financial aid.
• The Cuban president, Miguel Díaz-Canel, swiftly rejected Trump’s demands, asserting Cuba’s sovereignty.
• Cuba has become increasingly dependent on Venezuelan oil since 2000, notably under a U.S. embargo.
• Venezuela affirmed its “brotherhood, solidarity, cooperation and complementarity” with cuba.
• Trump’s aggressive stance follows the events surrounding the removal of Maduro on January 3.

“There will be no more oil or money for Cuba: Zero!” Trump declared on his Truth Social network, adding, “I strongly suggest that you reach an agreement, before it is too late.” He did not elaborate on the specifics of the agreement he seeks.

This assertive move follows a recent increase in Trump’s critical rhetoric towards Havana, particularly after the events of January 3, which involved the removal of Maduro from power.

U.S.-Cuba Relations-The U.S. has maintained a trade embargo against Cuba for over 60 years, significantly impacting its economy and increasing its dependence on countries like Venezuela for resources.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel responded forcefully to Trump’s comments, stating, “Cuba is a free, independent and sovereign nation.Nobody dictates to us what to do.” He further criticized those who “turn everything into business, even human lives,” implying a rebuke of Trump’s approach.

Since 2000, Havana has increasingly relied on Venezuelan oil, secured through an existing agreement, particularly given the constraints imposed by the long-standing U.S. embargo.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez characterized the United States as a “criminal hegemon” and “uncontrolled” entity, alleging that its actions threaten global peace and security, not only in Cuba and the Western Hemisphere, but worldwide.

Following Trump’s announcement,Venezuela released a statement emphasizing the historical foundations of its relationship with Cuba,rooted in “brotherhood,solidarity,cooperation and complementarity.”