The United States has begun limited contact with Cuban officials, US President Donald Trump said, as Washington intensifies pressure on the communist-run island by restricting oil supplies.

Speaking while travelling to Florida, Trump said recent US actions could push Havana towards negotiations, adding: “We’re starting to talk to Cuba.” He offered no details on the scope or timing of the outreach.

Key developments:

• President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on goods from countries supplying oil to Cuba.

• The move follows earlier cuts to Venezuelan oil after the US captured Nicolás Maduro in January.

• Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned the policy could trigger a humanitarian crisis and said Mexico would seek alternative aid routes.

• Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez accused Washington of trying to “suffocate” Cuba’s economy.

• Analysts estimate Cuba has 15–20 days of oil remaining at current demand levels.

Cuba is already experiencing prolonged blackouts, raising concerns over hospitals, food supplies, and basic services.

ℹ️ The Guardian, Euronews 

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President Donald Trump speaks with reporters aboard Air Force One as he travels from Joint Base Andrews, Md. to West Palm Beach, Fla., Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 –  Copyright  Mark Schiefelbein/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved.
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