President Donald Trump on Monday dismissed the possibility of a military intervention in Cuba, stating that discussions are underway with the Cuban government, as the island nation grapples with a severe fuel shortage triggering widespread blackouts and garbage accumulation in the streets. The announcement came as the United Nations called for an end to the U.S. Embargo, citing a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Trump’s comments, made aboard Air Force One, followed a recent executive order signed on January 29, 2026, declaring a national emergency and authorizing tariffs on imports of oil from third countries to Cuba. The order aims to curtail Cuba’s access to fuel, a move the administration asserts is necessary to counter what it describes as the Cuban regime’s “malign actions and policies” and protect U.S. National security.
The executive order allows the imposition of additional tariffs on imports from any nation that directly or indirectly supplies oil to Cuba, with the Secretary of State and Secretary of Commerce authorized to implement the tariff system. According to a White House fact sheet, the President retains the ability to modify the order should Cuba or affected countries accept steps to address U.S. Concerns.
The fuel crisis stems, in part, from the U.S. Capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in January, which shifted control of Venezuela’s oil supplies to Washington. Cuba had previously relied heavily on Venezuelan oil imports. Mexico has too suspended oil exports to Cuba in response to the threat of U.S. Tariffs, exacerbating the shortages.
“There’s an embargo. There’s no oil. There’s no money. There’s no anything,” Trump remarked, highlighting the impact of the U.S. Policies. The resulting shortages have led to reduced school and office hours, and widespread power outages across the country.
The situation has also impacted tourism, a crucial source of foreign revenue for Cuba. Canadian airlines recently suspended service to the island due to a jet fuel shortage, further straining the Cuban economy.
Though, the U.S. Representative to Cuba, Mike Hammer, recently distanced the U.S. From responsibility for Cuba’s economic difficulties. This statement was challenged by Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, Cuba’s deputy foreign minister, who responded on X, stating that it is “frequent for U.S. Officials and diplomats to claim that U.S. Aggression is not responsible for difficulties in Cuba.”
The United Nations has strongly condemned the U.S. Executive order, with UN human rights experts calling the fuel blockade a “serious violation of international law” and a “grave threat” to the Cuban population. The UN experts have urged the U.S. To end the embargo, citing the deteriorating humanitarian situation.
As of February 17, 2026, the U.S. State Department has not responded to requests for comment regarding the UN’s condemnation or the ongoing discussions with the Cuban government.
