Photo: US Coast Guard
(Miami, FL) - The Trump administration is ramping up enforcement of the oil embargo on Cuba by disrupting shipments attempting to evade U.S. sanctions. Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Commerce Department joined forces to interdict thousands of gallons of biodiesel fuel worth $2.8 million intended for the island nation.
CPB field office director Daniel Alonso says the shipments from Port Everglades and Houston are suspected of benefiting the Cuban Regime through a state-controlled entity. He says the intent is not to interfere with legitimate humanitarian assistance that supports Cuban families, workers and communities.
"U.S. Customs and Border Protection is steadfast in enforcing the laws of the United States across all domains, encompassing both incoming commerce and outbound shipments," said Alonso.
Homeland Security Miami Special Agent in Charge Jose Figueroa vowed DHS will continue to identify, disrupt and investigate efforts to evade U.S. sanctions.
Figueroa says several exporters are under investigation for potential involvement in the illegal shipments. The US fuel embargo began after it attacked Venezuela and has caused daily blackouts on the island nation and comes with threats of US military action against Cuba.
Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable, chemically processed diesel fuel made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking grease.