China condemned new U.S. sanctions targeting Cuba and two Chinese companies on Friday, accusing Washington of attempting to undermine Beijing’s relationship with Havana. The confrontation adds another flashpoint to U.S.–China tensions as President Donald Trump intensifies economic pressure on the communist-run Caribbean island.
The sanctions announced Thursday target Cuba’s oil sector and open the way for restrictions on electronics, manufacturing, maritime activities, and technology. For the first time, they penalize Chinese companies accused of supplying equipment to the Cuban military: state-owned China National Electronic Import-Export Company and Beijing H&C Technologies. The measures also target other entities and individuals linked to Cuban military-controlled businesses and oil shipments.
“China firmly opposes U.S. interference in and sabotage of China–Cuba cooperation,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told reporters, describing the sanctions as illegal and an example of “long-arm jurisdiction.” Beijing also warned it would take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its businesses.
The dispute reflects Washington’s expanding effort to isolate Havana economically while challenging China’s influence in the Western Hemisphere. Since January, the Trump administration has tightened sanctions and restricted oil supplies to Cuba, deepening an economic crisis marked by widespread blackouts and shortages of fuel and essential goods. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has accused Cuba’s leadership of diverting national resources toward military elites while ordinary citizens endure mounting hardship. Beijing rejects the legitimacy of the sanctions, and its diplomatic support gives Havana an important partner as American pressure increases.
Washington’s campaign against Cuba now intersects directly with its rivalry with China. By targeting Chinese suppliers, the Trump administration is extending pressure beyond Havana to the networks that support its government, while Beijing is signaling resistance to the extraterritorial reach of U.S. sanctions. Cuba is becoming another arena of strategic competition between the two powers, close to American shores. (AFP+EIR)
