Written by Femi Falana
Trump’s Threats Against Cuba Signal Potential Military Action
US President Donald Trump’s escalating threats towards Cuba are evident as he openly discusses the possibility of regime change. This aggressive stance not only subjects the Cuban populace to economic hardship but also reveals his willingness to consider military action, particularly following the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran.
Executive Order Targets Cuba’s Energy Supply Chain
On January 29, 2026, President Trump enacted Executive Order 14380, which declares a national emergency with a specific focus on Cuba’s energy supply chain. Set to take effect on January 30, this order introduces a new tariff mechanism designed to impede Cuba’s access to foreign oil by imposing tariffs on countries exporting oil to the island destined for the United States. This initiative, framed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the National Emergencies Act, seeks to penalize countries that continue to provide oil to Cuba, impacting global energy suppliers and traders.
Supreme Court Overturns Trump’s Tariff Authority
However, on February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court intervened in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump, which resulted in the revocation of the tariffs imposed on imports by Trump. In a decisive 6-3 ruling, the justices determined that the president does not possess the constitutional authority to levy tariffs without Congressional input.
Legal Implications of the Supreme Court Ruling
The court’s majority asserted that tariffs are equivalent to taxes, a power Constitutionally reserved for Congress. Additionally, the justices clarified that the IEEPA does not provide Trump with the authority to impose extensive tariffs, thereby undermining a key element of his administration’s trade policy.
Trump’s Reaction to Supreme Court’s Decision
Following this landmark ruling, Trump responded with hostility, attacking the six justices who voted against him. Despite demonstrating a blatant disregard for legal authority, the ruling remains binding for all individuals and entities in the U.S., reinforcing the fundamental principle of the rule of law.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Cuba Worsens
Cuba is grappling with a dire humanitarian crisis as its economy faces severe stagnation, exacerbated by U.S. policies. Recently, an illegal decision banning oil shipments to the island for over three months led to a catastrophic failure of the power grid, leaving 11 million people without electricity. Fortunately, Cuban energy officials confirmed that they have restored power and brought the largest oil-fired power plant back online after a nationwide outage lasting more than 29 hours, coinciding with U.S. efforts to restrict fuel supplies.
Diplomatic Stalemate in US-Cuba Relations
In a recent statement, Trump claimed that discussions with Cuba are ongoing, yet he emphasized prioritizing Iran over Cuba. Contradicting his assertions, Trump has shown reluctance to meet directly with the Cuban government, which has insisted that any negotiations occur on the basis of mutual respect for both nations’ sovereignty and political systems.
Implications of Trump’s Militaristic Rhetoric
Trump’s latest statements reveal a disturbing inclination towards militarism, openly discussing potential occupation of Cuba and asserting his ability to act unilaterally without Congressional approval. It is crucial to recognize that any military action against Cuba must receive explicit consent from Congress, preventing a situation akin to the ill-conceived military engagements previously seen in the region.
*Falana is a senior advocate and human rights lawyer in Nigeria.
