US Enforcement Actions Against Venezuelan Oil Shipments Impact Cuba's Fuel Supply

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:35:00 +0200

According to the Sky News article, the United States under President Donald Trump has implemented measures to intercept and disrupt Venezuelan oil shipments destined for Cuba. At the beginning of 2026, Trump reportedly ordered the capture and removal of Venezuelan leadership elements and took control of the country's oil operations, establishing what the article describes as an 'oil blockade' targeting Cuba. This has severely restricted the flow of subsidized Venezuelan fuel to the island nation, which has long relied on such supplies to mitigate its chronic energy shortages. The piece claims that the resulting fuel scarcity is causing widespread blackouts and economic hardship, effectively bringing Cuba 'to its knees.' It further suggests that Trump has indicated Cuba is 'next' on his list of countries to address, following actions involving Iran and Venezuela. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has pushed back against perceived threats of regime change. The article portrays the situat