Overview
- The pontiff joined Cuba’s bishops in calling for a “sincere and effective” dialogue to prevent violence and further suffering following his Angelus address in Rome.
- President Donald Trump signed a decree authorizing unspecified tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba, saying the move protects U.S. national security, with technical details yet to be released.
- Reports describe Cuba’s entrenched energy shortfalls and deepening poverty, raising concern that further fuel constraints could intensify blackouts and strain hospitals and transport.
- Mexico has recently supplied crude via Pemex and its government signaled solidarity with Cuba, a stance that could be tested by potential U.S. tariff actions on suppliers.
- The Vatican paired the call for talks with a plea to honor the Olympic truce ahead of Milan–Cortina 2026, while some embassies and firms in Havana review contingency plans.