China denounces Trump oil tariffs, vows support for Cuba against

China on Friday voiced strong opposition to new US measures targeting Cuba, after President Donald Trump signed an executive order threatening tariffs on countries that sell or provide oil to Havana, placing the Cuba oil tariffs dispute at the center of renewed China-US tensions.

Beijing backs Cuban sovereignty

Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said China “supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security” and firmly rejects outside pressure. Guo added that Beijing opposes actions that “deprive the Cuban people of their legitimate rights,” framing the issue as one of international law and non-interference.

Washington’s tariff threat

The remarks came in response to Trump’s executive order declaring a national emergency and outlining a mechanism to impose tariffs on goods from countries involved in supplying oil to Cuba. The White House said the move is aimed at protecting US national security and foreign policy interests by pressuring Havana over what it described as “malign actions and policies.”

Implementation and wider implications

Under the order, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick are authorized to take “all necessary actions,” including issuing rules and guidance to enforce the tariff system. The document also states the president may amend the order if Cuba or affected countries take steps aligned with US objectives. From Türkiye’s perspective, such unilateral sanctions are often criticized by policymakers and analysts for undermining dialogue and economic stability, reinforcing Ankara’s long-standing emphasis on diplomacy and respect for state sovereignty.