On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order declaring a national emergency, citing the Cuban government's policies and actions as an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to the national security and foreign policy of the United States. The order, effective from January 30, 2026, was announced from the White House. According to the order, Cuba "hosts dangerous adversaries" and enables the establishment of "military and intelligence capabilities that pose a direct threat" to U.S. national security. "The United States has zero tolerance for the depredations of the Cuban communist regime," the order states. "We will act to protect U.S. foreign policy, national security, and interests while remaining committed to the Cuban people's aspirations for a free and democratic society."