President Donald J. Trump has declared a national emergency regarding the Government of Cuba, citing its actions as an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States. The order, effective January 30, 2026, establishes a system that could impose additional tariffs on goods from countries that provide oil to Cuba.
In his statement, President Trump said: "As President of the United States, I have an imperative duty to protect the national security and foreign policy of this country. I find that the policies, practices, and actions of the Government of Cuba constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat, which has its source in whole or substantial part outside the United States, to the national security and foreign policy of the United States."
The administration alleges that Cuba supports hostile countries such as Russia, China, Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah by hosting military and intelligence operations that threaten U.S. interests. The order also points to human rights concerns within Cuba: "The communist regime persecutes and tortures its political opponents; denies the Cuban people free speech and press; corruptly profits from their misery; and commits other human-rights violations," according to President Trump.
Under this executive order, beginning January 30th an additional ad valorem duty may be imposed on imports from any country found to be providing oil directly or indirectly to Cuba. The Secretary of Commerce is tasked with determining whether a country is supplying oil to Cuba. If such a determination is made, further recommendations will be made by relevant officials regarding tariff imposition.
The order provides for potential modifications based on new information or retaliation by affected countries. It also includes monitoring requirements for ongoing assessment by federal agencies.
Reporting directives require regular updates to Congress about actions taken under this emergency declaration.
President Trump concluded: "I find that the policies, practices, and actions of the Government of Cuba directly threaten the safety, national security, and foreign policy of the United States... NOW THEREFORE... I hereby declare a national emergency with respect to that threat."
This action supersedes any prior presidential orders inconsistent with these measures.
