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In connection with this decree, Washington now has the ability to impose additional tariffs on goods imported from countries that supply oil to Cuba, both directly and indirectly.
Trump justified this decision by stating that the Cuban government is taking "extraordinary measures" that harm and pose a threat to the United States. The document states that the authorities in Cuba are interacting with states and groups hostile to America, including Russia, China, Iran, as well as organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah.
"In order to address the national emergency <…> I find it necessary to establish a tariff system as outlined below. Under this system, an additional ad valorem duty may be imposed on the import of goods originating from countries that directly or indirectly supply oil to Cuba," Trump noted in his decree.
Recently, the Trump administration has predicted the imminent collapse of the Cuban regime, citing the severe economic situation in the country, and expresses hope for a change of power on the island.
The rhetoric from the White House has intensified following the military operation in Venezuela, during which American forces evacuated President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Trump stated that Washington would control Venezuela until a change of power occurs.
According to Politico, among the possible measures being discussed in Washington is a complete blockade of oil supplies to Cuba. Experts from the analytical company Kpler estimate that at the current level of consumption, oil reserves on the island could be depleted in 15–20 days.
