Tankers have recently docked at the Matanzas terminal in Cuba as the nation braces for worsening fuel shortages. This escalation comes after the U.S. seized tankers linked to Venezuela, cutting off a vital energy lifeline. U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated on Sunday that no more Venezuelan oil or financial assistance will flow to Cuba, hinting at an urgent need for the Communist-run island to negotiate with Washington.
Venezuela has historically been Cuba’s primary oil supplier, but shipments have stalled since the U.S. captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in early January amid a stringent oil blockade. Shipping data confirms that no cargoes have departed from Venezuelan ports to Cuba since the U.S. military action. In a twist, Caracas and Washington are reportedly moving forward on a $2 billion deal that would allow the U.S. to import up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, with the proceeds deposited into Treasury-supervised accounts. This arrangement could serve as a significant test of the evolving dynamic between Trump and Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump declared, “THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA – ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.” He emphasized Cuba’s reliance on Venezuelan oil and resources over the years, reiterating the gravity of the situation.
In response, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez defended the island’s right to import fuel from any willing suppliers. He also contested claims that Cuba received any material compensation for the security services it provided to Venezuela. Rodríguez stated this following the recent U.S. raid that resulted in the deaths of 32 Cuban military and intelligence personnel, which Cuba claims were engaged in maintaining their national security.
Cuba’s reliance on imported crude oil has been exacerbated by dwindling domestic refining capacity, primarily depending on Venezuela, which exported around 26,500 barrels per day last year, covering nearly 50% of the island’s oil deficit. Additionally, Mexico has started to emerge as a critical alternative supplier, though volumes remain limited. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum noted last week that while her country hasn’t increased supply significantly, it has become a “key supplier” amid the turmoil in Venezuela.
Despite a grim forecast from U.S. intelligence regarding Cuba’s economic state, claims predicting the island’s imminent collapse lack substantiation. Confidential assessments indicate that key sectors such as agriculture and tourism are under severe strain due to frequent blackouts and trade sanctions. The potential loss of support from Venezuela could further complicate governance for President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Cuba’s energy crisis is a continuing saga, raised by geopolitical shifts and domestic challenges that threaten the livelihoods of its citizens. How the island navigates these tumultuous waters will be crucial in the coming months.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/11/trump-says-no-more-venezuelan-oil-or-money-to-go-to-cuba.html
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Publish Date: 2026-01-11 21:22:00
