“Cuba does not attack; we are the victims of U.S. attacks for 66 years and we will prepare ourselves to defend the homeland with our last drop of blood,” stated Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, reflecting the heightened tensions between Cuba and the United States under the Trump administration.
Trade with Cuba has collapsed significantly due to pressure from the U.S., which has effectively halted vital oil exports since January 2023. In March 2025, port calls to Cuba fell to just 11, the lowest since 2017, exacerbating the island’s economic crisis.
Despite not declaring a formal blockade, the U.S. has crippled Cuba’s trade, leading to severe shortages. Currently, Cuba produces only 40% of the oil it needs to cover its energy requirements, further straining its economy.
Trump’s controversial remarks, “I think I can do anything I want with it, if you want to know the truth,” regarding Cuba, have raised alarms about potential aggressive actions against the island nation.
In addition, Costa Rica’s decision to close its embassy in Cuba, not recognizing its government as legitimate, adds to the international isolation faced by Cuba.
Daniel Montero, a political analyst, remarked, “The agenda that the United States has with this is to create conditions that are horrible enough on the island that people will rise up against the government.”
Rodrigo Chaves, the President of Costa Rica, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “We must cleanse the hemisphere of Communists.” This rhetoric underscores the ongoing ideological battle in the region.
As the situation unfolds, uncertainties remain about the specific actions the Trump administration plans to take regarding Cuba. Details remain unconfirmed.
The effectiveness of U.S. humanitarian aid in alleviating the crisis in Cuba is also uncertain, as the island grapples with its most severe economic challenges in decades.