Cuba accuses US of economic blockade; Washington denies allegations
Foreign minister warns of fuel crisis as diplomatic tensions escalate between nations
HAVANA, Cuba (MNTV) – Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez has accused the United States of implementing economic warfare against the island through sanctions and fuel restrictions, warning of escalating tensions between the nations.
In a statement posted on social media, Rodriguez claimed that Washington is strangling Cuba’s economy through what he characterized as an economic blockade and energy siege. He called recent U.S. measures “genocidal” and characterized them as violations of international law.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio rejected the allegations, stating that no oil blockade exists. However, Rodriguez directly challenged Rubio’s characterization, pointing to recent executive orders signed by President Donald Trump that threaten penalties against countries supplying fuel to Cuba.
According to Cuban officials, the impact has been severe. Rodriguez stated that only one oil tanker has reached Cuban shores in four months, creating widespread fuel shortages and power outages across the island since late January.
Cuban authorities have documented widespread power cuts and fuel scarcity affecting daily life and economic operations. Officials attribute the crisis directly to U.S. policy measures restricting access to fuel suppliers.
The Trump administration has emphasized energy security and sanctions enforcement as central to its Cuba policy, according to State Department statements and official communications.
Rodriguez warned that the situation represents an escalating confrontation, with language from both sides hardening around allegations of economic strangulation and threats of military action. He stated that the combination of financial restrictions and energy pressure amounts to what Cuban officials characterize as international crimes.
The dispute reflects long-standing tensions between the United States and Cuba regarding sanctions policy, dating to the 1960s embargo and continuing through administrations of both parties.
Cuba has sought support from international forums regarding the fuel crisis and the impact of U.S. sanctions on civilian populations. The situation remains a source of ongoing diplomatic tension between the nations.
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