The Revolutionary Government of Cuba has condemned a new escalation of measures by the United States government aimed at restricting fuel supplies to the country.
In a statement issued in Havana on January 30, the government said an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on January 29 declares a national emergency that would allow the United States to impose trade tariffs on imports from countries supplying oil to Cuba.
The statement said the order includes accusations against Cuba, including a claim that the country poses a threat to United States national security. The government rejected this claim and said it is aware that such assertions are not supported by facts.
According to the statement, the executive order seeks to increase pressure on existing restrictions that have been in place since President Donald Trump’s first term. It said the measures aim to prevent fuel from entering Cuba through pressure on third countries.
The Revolutionary Government said the order represents a violation of international law and conflicts with the Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace. It added that the policy reflects an attempt to dictate trade relations between sovereign states.
The statement said the United States has pursued similar policies toward Cuba for 67 years and has not achieved its objectives. It noted that Cuba has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the United States based on international law, sovereign equality, and non-interference.
The government said Cuba does not pose a threat to the United States and is not subject to sanctions by the international community. It added that Cuban citizens have treated United States visitors with respect when travel has been permitted.
The statement said Cuba will respond to the new measures with resolve and reaffirmed its position on national sovereignty.
