Supreme Court Rules Trump's Cuba Tariffs Unconstitutional

On February 20, 2026, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled 6-3 in the case of Learn Resources Inc. v. Trump, striking down President Donald Trump's executive order E.O. 14380, which imposed unprecedented tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba.

The court declared that Trump lacked the constitutional authority to impose tariffs without congressional approval, emphasizing that the power to tax is expressly reserved for the legislature. The ruling highlighted that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant the president the authority to impose sweeping tariffs.

This decision was a significant blow to Trump's trade strategy, particularly as it related to Cuba, which has been facing a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the sanctions. The ruling also addressed Trump's threats of military action against Cuba and his refusal to engage in direct talks with the Cuban government, led by President Miguel Díaz-Canel, emphasizing the importance of respecting national sovereignty.