US Approves Sale of Venezuelan Oil to Cuba's Private Sector

In an unexpected shift in U.S. foreign policy toward the island, the administration of President Donald Trump has authorized the resale of Venezuelan-origin oil to Cuba’s private sector. This measure, announced by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), allows companies to apply for specific licenses to supply fuel to non-governmental entities, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and humanitarian organizations.

Relief Amid an Energy Crisis

The decision comes at a critical time for Cuba, where the electricity deficit has surpassed 1,900 MW in recent days, leaving nearly two-thirds of the country in the dark. Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, direct shipments of crude oil from Venezuela to the Cuban government had come to a complete halt, exacerbating fuel shortages that were already paralyzing transportation and industry.

Although the oil originates in Venezuela, the State Department clarified that the crude will depart from U.S. ports, ensuring strict control over its final destination. This strategy seeks to strengthen the Cuban private sector as an independent actor from the state.

The Role of SMEs and the Private Sector

For the first time, licenses granted by the Treasury Department explicitly differentiate between the Cuban government and the island’s private sector. Private Cuban businesses will be able to directly import the fuel needed to operate their businesses, which could alleviate pressure on the logistics of basic food and services that currently depend on private power generators.

Reactions and Perspectives

Analysts suggest that this measure is part of the “friendly and controlled takeover” strategy recently mentioned by Trump. By economically empowering Cuban entrepreneurs while maintaining pressure on the state structure, Washington aims to accelerate an economic transition on the island.

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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the Cuban government use this oil? No, the licenses explicitly forbid the fuel from being transferred to or used by Cuban government entities. it is solely intended for the private sector and humanitarian purposes.

2. Who can apply for these licenses? U.S. or foreign companies under U.S. jurisdiction that wish to sell Venezuelan crude (managed under U.S. control) to private entities in Cuba.

3. How will the fuel reach the island? The crude will be dispatched from U.S. ports, ensuring that the volume and recipient are verified before departure.

4. Will this alleviate general blackouts in Cuba? Not directly, as state-owned thermoelectric plants will not be allowed to use this fuel. However, it will help critical businesses, such as bakeries and private transport, to operate with their own generators without being reliant on state rationing.

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• Trump Raises Prospect of ‘Friendly Takeover’ of Cuba Amid Talks

Sources: CNN en Español, ABC17NEWS, Infobae, CiberCuba.