Cuba accuses US of ‘blatant lies’ over fuel blockade

Havana: Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla on Sunday, has strongly criticised the United States, accusing it of “blatantly lying” about the existence of a fuel blockade on the island.

In a post on the social media platform X, Rodríguez said that Washington’s claims contradict its own executive orders and regulatory measures.

He pointed specifically to a January 29 executive order, along with subsequent steps taken by the US, as evidence of what he described as a “brutal blockade” targeting fuel supplies to Cuba.

Allegations of coercion and sanctions

According to Rodríguez, the measures go beyond direct restrictions. He alleged that the US has issued threats of sanctions against third countries and foreign companies involved in supplying oil to Cuba.

He further claimed that there have been hostile actions aimed at oil tankers transporting fuel to the island, adding to the pressure on Cuba’s already strained energy system.

The Cuban minister argued that these policies are designed to weaken the country’s economy, limit its development, reduce its sources of income, and restrict access to international markets and technology.

Economic strain and humanitarian concerns

Cuba continues to face a severe economic and energy crisis, which authorities attribute largely to decades of US sanctions. The situation has worsened in recent months, with fuel shortages leading to widespread disruptions.

International organisations, including the United Nations, have warned that the lack of fuel is pushing the country towards a humanitarian crisis, affecting essential services and daily life.

Trump’s remarks add to tensions

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has intensified rhetoric towards the island.

Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative conference in Miami, Florida, Trump stated: “Cuba is next, by the way, but pretend I didn’t say that please. Pretend I didn’t say that. Please, please, please media, please disregard that statement. Thank you very much. Cuba’s next.”

His remarks came in the wake of recent US military actions, including the raid in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, as well as ongoing joint attacks with Israel on Iran that began on February 28.

Earlier in the month, Trump had also suggested that Cuba could “fall pretty soon”, while indicating that his administration’s immediate focus remains on Iran.

With agency inputs