Trump Threatens to “Take” Cuba and Blocks Needed Fuel Shipments
NEWS & RESEARCH
Following the January 2026 invasion of Venezuela, the Trump administration blocked Venezuelan oil exports to Cuba and imposed tariffs on any nation supplying fuel to the island. This months-long blockade has left Cuba with only a single successful tanker delivery, resulting in nationwide blackouts and deepening economic paralysis. President Trump has repeatedly threatened to "take" the country or force a total state collapse.
SOURCES: CBS | Al Jazeera
ANALYSIS & OPINION
Humanitarian and policy experts have condemned the administration’s strategy. William LeoGrande (American University) and Peter Kornbluh (National Security Archive) describe the moves as a "brazen" return to imperialist policy. UN official Francisco Pichón warns that the blockade poses a literal, non-rhetorical risk to human life.
SOURCES:The Nation | UN News | New Yorker
HOW TO FIX IT
Congressional action:
Prevent Military Escalation: Pass the Prevent an Unconstitutional War in Cuba Act and the Senate’s War Powers Resolution to bar unauthorized military force against the island.
End the Blockade: Pass the United States-Cuba Trade Act to repeal the embargo’s legal framework and normalize bilateral trade.
Legislation: H.R.8103 - To prohibit the use of funds to use military force in or against Cuba, and for other purposes| H.R.7521 - United States-Cuba Trade Act of 2026
