President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States has begun communicating with Cuban leaders, even as his administration ramps up economic pressure on the island by cutting off crucial oil supplies. Speaking to reporters Saturday night while flying to Florida, Trump offered few details but said, “We’re starting to talk to Cuba.”
Oil Embargo as a Negotiation Tool
The announcement follows recent moves by the Trump administration to halt oil shipments from Venezuela and Mexico, actions the president suggested are intended to push Cuba toward negotiations. These steps come after Washington’s early January capture of Venezuela’s then-President Nicolás Maduro and reflect a more aggressive approach toward nations seen as US adversaries.
Trump has indicated that he believes the Cuban government is on the brink of collapse, and the tightening oil restrictions are already putting pressure on the island’s economy.
Regional Concerns and Humanitarian Warnings
In a recent executive order, Trump imposed tariffs on goods from any country supplying oil to Cuba. This move directly affected Mexico, which had become a key oil supplier after Venezuelan shipments were cut off.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned Friday that these measures could trigger a humanitarian crisis and said her government would explore ways to continue assisting Cuba. Trump responded on Saturday, insisting, “It doesn’t have to be a humanitarian crisis. I think they probably would come to us and want to make a deal.”
Trump Predicts a Deal
While the goals of the US administration remain unclear, Trump expressed confidence that negotiations with Cuba will yield results. “So Cuba would be free again,” he said, predicting that some form of agreement would be reached. “I think, you know, we’ll be kind,” he added, suggesting a deal could come without unnecessary conflict.
