Overview
- Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum warned the move could trigger a large-scale humanitarian crisis in Cuba and directed Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente to seek urgent clarification from the U.S. Department of State.
- Cuban officials condemned the measure as “cruel and illegal,” accusing Washington of coercion that would harm the population.
- PEMEX filings confirm crude exports to Cuba since mid‑2023, leaving Mexico exposed to potential penalties, while the order does not publicly specify tariff rates or enforcement details.
- Energy analysts caution that if external fuel deliveries cease, Cuba could face a severe energy crunch within six to eight weeks, with diesel shortages threatening power, transport, hospitals and food distribution.
- High-level contacts continued as de la Fuente spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio following a Sheinbaum–Trump call on security and trade, reflecting Mexico’s push to protect its interests and press for humanitarian safeguards.