The Trump administration is reportedly considering a full naval blockade aimed at stopping oil imports to Cuba, according to a Politico report citing multiple sources familiar with internal discussions. This dramatic move would mark a significant escalation in U.S. pressure on Havana and comes amid broader efforts to reshape U.S. policy across the Caribbean region.
Officials say the blockade idea has been pushed by hard-line figures within the administration who believe cutting off fuel supplies will weaken the Cuban government’s support for allied regimes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is said to back the proposal. No final decision has been made yet, and it’s unclear how and when such a blockade would be implemented if approved.
This development follows already heightened tensions in the region, including an ongoing U.S. naval operation near Venezuela that has disrupted oil shipments and sparked international criticism. The consideration of a blockade targeting Cuba’s oil lifeline underscores how far Washington may be willing to go to compel political change in Havana.