Washington, Jan 30, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba, signing an executive order aimed at increasing pressure on what the White House described as Cuba’s “criminal policies and activities.”
According to the White House, the order establishes a punitive framework under which additional import duties will be levied on goods from countries that directly or indirectly provide oil to the Cuban government. The move is intended to safeguard U.S. national security and commercial interests while tightening economic pressure on Havana.
Turkish news outlet TRT World reported that the executive order authorizes U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to take necessary steps to implement the tariff measures.
The White House said the initiative is designed to curb Cuba’s alleged unlawful activities and reinforce U.S. influence and interests on the island.
The announcement comes at a critical time for Cuba’s energy sector. Venezuela—Cuba’s long-time primary oil supplier—has sharply reduced shipments, while Mexico has temporarily suspended oil supplies, intensifying the island nation’s fuel shortages.
Analysts say the new U.S. tariff threat could further isolate Cuba economically and deter third countries from maintaining energy ties with Havana amid an already fragile regional energy landscape.
