US Eases Venezuela Oil Ban to Cuba Amid Caribbean Crisis Warnings

• The US softened its ban on Venezuelan oil exports to Cuba, allowing transactions for "commercial and humanitarian use" through private businesses.
• The move comes as Cuba faces a severe economic crisis, prompting warnings from Caribbean leaders about regional instability and migration.
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the January 3 US attack that deposed Venezuela's leftist leader, stating Venezuela is "better off today."
• Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew warned that a destabilized Cuba would impact the entire Caribbean.
• Canada announced Can$8 million in aid for Cuba, which is experiencing blackouts and fuel shortages.