On January 11, U. S. President Donald Trump urged Cuba to make a deal with the United States now that Venezuela has stopped providing oil and financial support to the country, following the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
• Trump's comments came after the U. S. military captured Maduro on January 3, significantly changing Venezuela’s political landscape.
• Historically, Venezuela has supplied Cuba with oil, contributing to the island's economy, but that support is now in jeopardy.
• Trump declared that there will be "no more oil or money" going to Cuba and suggested an urgent deal is necessary for Cuban leaders.
• Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel responded defiantly, stating Cuba would defend its homeland and criticized those who blame the revolution for economic issues.
• Reports indicate Cuba's economy is struggling, affected by blackouts, trade sanctions, and a decline in tourism due to COVID-19.
• Venezuela supplied about 27,000 barrels per day to Cuba before the cutoff, which is crucial for the island's energy needs.
• If U. S. embargos continue, Cuba might rely more on oil from Russia and Mexico, but these sources have limits.
Trump's statements highlight escalating tensions between Cuba and the U. S. amid Cuba's economic hardships. Experts warn that extreme conditions could lead to civil unrest in Cuba as the population struggles for basic necessities.
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