Trump Announces Mexico Will Halt Oil Shipments to Cuba Amid Tariff Threats
In a controversial move, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday that Mexico will cease oil shipments to Cuba, following threats from the United States to impose tariffs on countries supplying oil to the Caribbean island.
During a press conference from the Oval Office, Trump stated:
"Cuba is a failed state. Mexico will stop sending it oil," adding that this decision is part of U.S. pressure on Havana.
The Cuban economy, which has long relied on cheap Venezuelan oil, is currently facing its most severe crisis since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, marked by frequent power outages and long lines at gas stations.
On Thursday, Trump signed an executive order threatening tariffs on countries that continue to send oil to Cuba, while Havana accuses Washington of attempting to suffocate its economy.
Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed on Sunday her intention to send humanitarian aid to Cuba, including food and essential goods, while seeking ways to maintain oil supplies despite U.S. threats.
After a phone call with Trump, she remarked: "We never discussed the issue of oil for Cuba with President Trump."
Trump later confirmed from the Oval Office: "I think we are very close to an agreement, but we are now dealing with Cuban leaders," without providing further details.
In contrast, Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío stated to AFP that there has been an exchange of messages between Cuba and the United States, but no official discussions are taking place, adding:
"There is no dialogue in the literal sense at the moment, but messages have been exchanged."
