HAVANA, Cuba — As of 04 February 2026, the Republic of Cuba is facing a critical geopolitical and economic crossroads. Following a week of escalating tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on the island’s socialist government, threatening severe tariffs on any nation—specifically targeting Mexico—that continues to supply Cuba with oil. While Havana expresses a cautious openness to dialogue, Canadians are being warned of deteriorating conditions on the ground, including nationwide power outages and a collapsing tourism sector.
U.S. Pressure and the “Oil Blockade”
The geopolitical landscape shifted dramatically this week as the Trump administration moved to choke off Cuba’s energy lifelines. On 02 February 2026, President Trump issued an executive order threatening Mexico with tariffs if it continues its humanitarian oil shipments to the energy-starved island. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed being “blindsided” by the move but has pledged to continue providing aid where possible.
In response, a senior Cuban diplomat told the Associated Press on 03 February 2026 that while Havana is “open to dialogue” with Washington, certain sovereign matters—including the Cuban Constitution—remain non-negotiable. Despite the rhetoric, President Trump noted aboard Air Force One yesterday that the U.S. is “starting to talk” to Cuban leaders, though the nature of these discussions remains opaque.
Impact on Canadian Travellers
For Canadians, the situation has prompted urgent updates from Global Affairs Canada. The federal government has updated its travel advisory as of 03 February 2026, citing significant health risks and unpredictable infrastructure failures. The island is currently plagued by:
- Scheduled and Unscheduled Blackouts: Daily power cuts are being used to manage the failing electrical grid, with some nationwide outages lasting several days.
- Fuel Shortages: The lack of oil has paralyzed local transport and impacted tourism services.
- Supply Scarcity: Severe shortages of food, clean water, and basic medical supplies (including multivitamins and antibiotics) are being reported across the provinces.
Tourism in a “Downward Spiral”
Once the engine of the Cuban economy, the tourism industry is reportedly in a “downward spiral.” Reports from Havana describe empty streets and idle tour buses. While Cuban officials have attempted to reassure the Canadian travel sector that resorts remain operational, experts suggest that Ottawa is already preparing contingency plans for the thousands of Canadians currently on the island should the situation devolve further.
Cuba Country Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Republic of Cuba |
| Geography | Archipelago of ~1,600 islands; largest in the Caribbean |
| Location | 90 miles south of the Florida Keys |
| Capital | Havana |
FAQ
Is it safe for Canadians to travel to Cuba right now?
While the Canadian government has not issued a “Do Not Travel” advisory, it has significantly increased the risk level. Travellers are warned to expect major disruptions to electricity, water, and food supplies. A new health risk advisory was also issued on 03 February 2026.
Why is there a fuel crisis in Cuba?
The crisis is driven by a combination of decaying domestic infrastructure and increased U.S. pressure on international suppliers. Most recently, the U.S. has threatened tariffs against Mexico to stop oil deliveries, which are vital for Cuba’s power plants.
What is the current status of U.S.-Cuba relations?
Relations are at a point of high tension. The U.S. is utilizing economic leverage and tariffs to isolate the Cuban government, while Cuban diplomats maintain that they are willing to talk only if their national sovereignty and constitution are respected.