Venezuela and Cuba Shift From Brotherhood to a More Cautious Relationship
For more than two decades, Venezuela-Cuba relations rested on a political and economic alliance built around Venezuelan oil, Cuban cooperation and a shared vision for Latin America. The exchange also served practical needs: Caracas expanded its social programs and received security assistance, while Havana gained access to an energy source and economic support that became […]
Venezuela and Cuba have transitioned from a close relationship to a more cautious one. For over two decades, their alliance was based on oil supply, Cuban cooperation, and shared aspirations for Latin America. However, Venezuela's economic crisis and reduced oil revenues strained their partnership. The death of Hugo Chávez in 2013, combined with Venezuela's economic decline, led to a deterioration in the relationship.
The capture of Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3, 2026, further altered the balance. Cuba faced the loss of a major energy partner as Venezuelan oil shipments to the island were interrupted. While Cuban citizens died during the U.S. operation, it also disrupted the oil exchange. The Cuban government confirmed 32 deaths, highlighting the extent of bilateral security cooperation.
The operation also disrupted the oil exchange, with Venezuela becoming Cuba's largest supplier of crude oil. The alliance, initially built on economic and political cooperation, now faces uncertainty as each government seeks to navigate their new relationship with Washington.
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