ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

US sanctions Cuba's state oil company amid China ties

economy-finance · 2026-06-11

The Trump administration has placed sanctions on Union Cuba-Petroleo (CUPET), the oil and gas enterprise owned by the Cuban government, intensifying the pressure on Havana's communist regime. This action focuses on a crucial sector contributing to the island's deepening energy crisis. The designation restricts CUPET's assets and interests within US jurisdiction and increases the risk of sanctions for foreign firms and financial institutions involved in specific dealings with the company. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the sanctions shortly after a video conference between senior officials from China and Cuba, aimed at discussing cooperation and party relations.

Key facts

  • The Trump administration imposed sanctions on Union Cuba-Petroleo (CUPET).
  • CUPET is Cuba's state-owned oil and gas company.
  • The sanctions escalate pressure on Havana's communist government.
  • The energy sector is central to Cuba's worsening energy crisis.
  • The designation blocks CUPET's property and interests under US jurisdiction.
  • Foreign companies and financial institutions face sanctions risk for transactions with CUPET.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the sanctions.
  • The move followed a video conference between senior Chinese and Cuban officials on bilateral cooperation.

Entities

Institutions

  • Union Cuba-Petroleo
  • CUPET
  • Trump administration
  • US State Department

Locations

  • United States
  • Cuba
  • Havana
  • China
  • Beijing

Sources