Trump Imposes Tariffs on Oil Suppliers to Cuba, Pressuring Mexico

On January 29, 2026, President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on goods from countries that sell or provide oil to Cuba. This move is part of a broader strategy to isolate the Cuban government, which Trump has labeled an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to U.S. national security. The order allows the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to implement a tariff system targeting nations that engage in oil trade with Cuba, including Russia, China, and Iran, as well as militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.

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The executive order has significant implications for Mexico, which has historically been a major oil supplier to Cuba, providing approximately 20,000 barrels per day. Following the announcement, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that her government had temporarily halted oil shipments to Cuba, asserting that this decision was made independently and not under U.S. pressure. She emphasized Mexico's sovereignty in making such decisions, stating, "It is a sovereign decision and it is made in the moment when necessary."

Mexico’s president says cancellation of oil shipment to Cuba is ‘sovereign’ decision

The U.S. has long maintained strict economic sanctions against Cuba, and the recent military operation that resulted in the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has further strained relations. With Venezuela being Cuba's primary oil supplier, the U.S. military's actions have significantly disrupted Cuba's oil supply, leading to severe fuel shortages and economic instability on the island. Trump has stated that "Cuba will be failing pretty soon," indicating his belief that the Cuban regime is on the brink of collapse due to these pressures.

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Critics of Trump's tariff strategy argue that it may exacerbate humanitarian issues in Cuba, where residents are already facing severe shortages of basic supplies and energy. Sheinbaum has expressed concerns about the humanitarian implications of cutting off oil supplies, stating that Mexico will continue to provide humanitarian aid to Cuba. Additionally, some analysts warn that Trump's aggressive tactics could lead to increased tensions and instability in the region.

Trump threatens tariffs on goods from countries that sell oil to Cuba

In a recent phone call, Trump praised Sheinbaum as a "wonderful and highly intelligent leader," and both leaders described their conversation as productive, focusing on trade and security issues. However, Sheinbaum has reiterated Mexico's commitment to its sovereignty, emphasizing that decisions regarding oil shipments to Cuba are made independently of U.S. influence.

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As the situation develops, the U.S. is expected to monitor compliance with the new tariff system closely. The potential for a naval blockade against Cuba has also been discussed, which would further restrict oil supplies to the island. The ongoing negotiations regarding the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may also be influenced by these developments, as both countries navigate the complexities of trade and security in the context of U.S. foreign policy.

Trump threatens tariffs on goods from countries that sell oil to Cuba

• “Cuba will be failing pretty soon,” — Donald Trump, President of the United States

Trump threatens tariffs on any nation supplying Cuba with oil

• “It is a sovereign decision and it is made in the moment when necessary.” — Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico

Mexico’s president says cancellation of oil shipment to Cuba is ‘sovereign’ decision

• “These actions constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to US national security and foreign policy, requiring immediate response to protect American citizens and interests,” — White House Statement

Trump threatens tariffs on goods from countries that sell oil to Cuba

This evolving situation highlights the intricate balance of power and diplomacy in U.S.-Latin American relations, particularly as the Trump administration seeks to exert influence over Cuba through economic pressure.

Trump threatens tariffs on any country that sells oil to Cuba, putting pressure on Mexico