Trump Vows "Zero Oil" for Cuba, Tightens Venezuela Blockade in 2026

The oil taps are running dry, and the pressure's mounting. President Donald Trump declared on Sunday that no more Venezuelan oil or money will reach Cuba. It's a move that pushes the communist-run island toward a potential breaking point.

The Impact of Venezuela Oil Blockade 2026

According to ship-tracking data, not a single cargo has left Venezuelan ports for Cuba since the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by US forces on January 3, 2026. Trump's latest ultimatum on Truth Social was blunt: "THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA – ZERO!"

Venezuela has long been Cuba's lifeblood, supplying roughly 26,500 barrels per day last year. This covered about 50% of the island's oil deficit. Without this supply, Havana is struggling with rolling blackouts and severe fuel shortages that have become a daily reality for its citizens.

Diplomatic Firestorm Between Washington and Havana

Havana isn't backing down without a fight. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel rejected the threats, stating that Cuba remains a "free, independent, and sovereign nation." Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez went further, describing the US as an "out-of-control criminal hegemon" that threatens global security.

While Cuba has turned to Mexico for help, the volumes aren't enough to replace the Venezuelan shortfall. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that while Mexico is now an "important supplier," it hasn't increased its volumes to match Havana's growing desperation.