Overview
- Citing national security, the president signed a decree allowing tariffs on countries that sell oil to Havana.
- Cuba’s Foreign Ministry rejected the U.S. label of an “extraordinary” threat and said the island hosts no foreign military or intelligence bases.
- Havana expressed willingness for respectful technical cooperation on issues like counterterrorism and anti–money laundering while accusing Washington of trying to choke its economy.
- Mexico’s president pledged food and other aid to Cuba and said she is seeking a way to continue oil deliveries after Venezuelan shipments halted in early January.
- U.S. chargé d’affaires Mike Hammer continued travels across the island that drew protests, and Washington asked Cuba to stop interference with his diplomatic work.