1. United States
2. N.J.
3. Letter

I write to condemn the United States’ restrictions on fuel shipments to Cuba, which have intensified economic hardship for ordinary civilians while doing little to advance meaningful political change. Limiting access to fuel cripples essential services, disrupting public transportation, agriculture, food distribution, and the operation of hospitals and pharmacies. Fuel shortages affect every aspect of daily life, leaving families struggling to reach work, obtain necessities, or access medical care. Policies that restrict energy supplies place the greatest burden on vulnerable people rather than political leaders, creating avoidable suffering without offering a clear path toward improvement. Humanitarian principles should guide U.S. policy. Measures that interfere with access to basic infrastructure needs such as fuel undermine our nation’s commitment to human dignity and stability in the region. Constructive engagement and targeted diplomacy would be far more effective than broad restrictions that harm civilians. I urge policymakers to reconsider fuel-related sanctions and adopt an approach that reduces hardship while encouraging cooperation and dialogue. Ensuring reliable access to fuel would help stabilize essential services and improve daily life for millions of Cubans while opening the door to a more constructive relationship.