In a recent press briefing, President Donald Trump stated that Cuba is “very close to failing,” pointing to the total cessation of Venezuelan oil deliveries that once sustained the island’s fragile economy. The shift follows the dramatic events of January 3rd, when U.S. special forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Since then, the U.S. has taken de facto control over Venezuela’s oil exports, announcing that “zero” oil or money will now flow to the Castro-led regime. The Trump administration is now reportedly considering a total naval blockade to stop any third-party tankers from reaching Cuban ports. Despite the pressure, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has refused to enter talks with Washington, calling the U.S. actions “economic coercion” and a violation of international law.