The Trump administration is weighing a naval blockade against Cuba aimed at preventing oil imports from reaching the island, according to Politico. The proposal, still under internal review, would mark a significant escalation in U.S. pressure on Havana and reflects a broader strategy that has increasingly relied on energy restrictions as a tool of foreign policy.
According to the report, the idea being discussed would involve stopping oil tankers before they reach Cuban ports, targeting a critical vulnerability in the country’s economy. Three officials familiar with the conversations told Politico that the plan has backing from senior figures within the administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a long-time critic of Cuba’s communist government.
No final decision has been made, and the blockade is being evaluated alongside other possible measures. Still, the move would go beyond previous actions announced by President Donald Trump, who in recent weeks has publicly promised to prevent Venezuelan oil and financial resources from flowing to Cuba.
The approach mirrors steps taken against Venezuela in December, when U.S. forces began intercepting sanctioned oil tankers as part of a broader campaign to weaken the government of Nicolás Maduro. That operation significantly raised tensions in the region and signaled a tougher enforcement posture by Washington.
Analysts cited by Reuters warned that a full disruption of oil imports could have severe consequences for Cuba’s fuel supply, electricity generation and overall economy. The island has faced recurring fuel shortages and power outages in recent years, making it heavily dependent on external energy sources.
Politico also reported that a total blockade would represent a clear escalation compared to earlier measures. Earlier this week, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration is pursuing a regime change strategy in Cuba by mid-year, including efforts to identify influential figures in Havana willing to negotiate a political transition.
While the White House has not officially confirmed the plan, the discussions highlight a renewed willingness by the Trump administration to apply military and economic pressure in Latin America as part of its broader regional strategy.