United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed grave concern over the potential humanitarian crisis in Cuba if the country is deprived of essential oil supplies. This comes amidst escalating threats from the United States to disrupt energy provisions as part of a coercive strategy.
Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, emphasized the Secretary-General’s apprehension regarding Cuba’s deteriorating humanitarian conditions, cautioning that a failure to meet the nation’s oil requirements could lead to severe consequences, possibly even a collapse.
Cuba, a communist state enduring a longstanding trade embargo imposed by the US, had been sustaining its oil needs primarily through supplies from Venezuela until the ousting of its socialist leader, Nicolas Maduro, by American forces last month.
In response to these developments, President Donald Trump has asserted control over Cuba’s oil reserves and issued threats to halt oil shipments to the country. Additionally, he has implied the imposition of tariffs on any nation offering assistance to Havana.
Trump has expressed a desire to negotiate with Cuban authorities, indicating his intent to strike a deal. Notably, he announced that Mexico would cease its oil exports to Cuba, characterizing the nation as “a failed state.”
