Addressing Threats to the United States by the Government of Cuba
Feb 3, 2026
Feb 3, 2026
Summary
Declares a national emergency because of threats from Cuba and creates a system to put extra taxes on goods from any country that sells oil to Cuba.
What problem does this solve?
The Cuban government supports countries and groups that are hostile to the United States, creating a threat to national security. This order punishes countries that help Cuba by selling it oil, aiming to weaken the Cuban government's ability to cause harm.
Who does this affect?
- Cuban government
- Foreign countries trading with Cuba
- U.S. importers of goods from sanctioned countries
What does this order do?
Declares a national emergency
Finds that the actions of the Cuban government are an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.
Creates a new tariff system
Allows for an extra tax (ad valorem duty) to be placed on goods from any foreign country that sells or provides oil to Cuba.
Assigns roles for identifying countries
The Secretary of Commerce will determine if a country is providing oil to Cuba. The Secretary of State will then recommend whether to impose tariffs.
Allows for modifications and retaliation
The President can change the order if other countries retaliate against the U.S. or if Cuba changes its behavior.
Defines what 'providing oil' means
Includes selling oil indirectly through other people or countries, as long as there is knowledge that the oil might go to Cuba.
What is the real world impact?
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Pressures countries to stop supporting the cuban government
By threatening tariffs on any country that sells oil to Cuba, this order aims to economically isolate the Cuban regime. This makes it harder for Cuba to get resources it needs to support actions the U.S. opposes.
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Strengthens U.S. stance against hostile nations
The order explicitly names Russia, China, Iran, and terrorist groups as being supported by Cuba. This action serves as a strong statement against these adversaries and their allies in the Western Hemisphere.
When does this start?
This order becomes effective at 12:01 a.m. eastern standard time on January 30, 2026.