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CWA # 1935
Conflict Weekly
Protests in Iran | Instability in Nigeria
Conflict Weekly #315, 16 January 2026, Vol 7, No. 2

  IPRI Team
15 January 2026

Conflict Weekly #315, 16 January 2026, Vol 7, No. 2
An initiative by NIAS-IPRI

Brighty Ann Sarah and Anu Maria Joseph

Protests in Iran: Continuing Stalemate and Shifting US Position
Brighty Ann Sarah

In the news
On 15 January, the US Department of Treasury imposed sanctions on five Iranian officials, including the Secretary of the Supreme Council for National Security and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and law enforcement forces commander, for the violent crackdown on protesters. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused the leaders of several unlawful transfers of “funds stolen from Iranian families” to international banks and demanded that the regime “stop the violence and stand with the people of Iran.”

On 14 January, following Tehran’s postponement of the execution of an anti-government protester, President Trump stated that certain “very important sources on the other side” had informed him that the government crackdown on protestors was easing and that Washington would pursue a “wait-and-see” response. Trump also expressed his reservations about extending support to Reza Pahlavi, the exiled heir of the former shah, stating that “I don't know how he'd play within his own country, and we really aren't up to that point yet,” adding that “I don't know whether or not his country would accept his leadership.” 

On 13 January, Washington withdrew personnel from the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar following Tehran’s warnings that US military bases in neighbouring countries would be treated as “legitimate targets” if the US pursues military intervention. The Revolutionary Guards' Aerospace Commander Majid Mousavi declared that Iran's stockpile of missiles has increased since the 12-day war, and that Tehran was “at the peak of our readiness.”

On the same day, President Trump reiterated his support for the protesters in Tehran, assuring that “help is on its way.” He also announced 25 per cent tariffs on countries trading with Iran.

Issues at large
First, Iran’s history of protests and state responses. Over the last two decades, Iran witnessed several major protest movements. The regime has maintained a similar response of denial, deflection, and brutal repression, internet blackouts to disrupt coordination, attribution to foreign powers, and subsequent show trials or executions to deter future dissent. Massive protests broke out against the 2009 presidential elections, which were marked by accusations of widespread electoral fraud. The protesters disputed the victory of the then-president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. The months-long protests met with a severe crackdown and censorship. A similar response was pursued during the November 2019 protests over the rise in fuel prices. The peaceful protest morphed into calls for regime change and was quelled with severe state repression, communication blackouts and mass detentions. 

In 2022, women-led protests under the slogan “Women, Life, Freedom” took over Iran after the alleged custodial torture and death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. She was arrested by the country’s "morality police" for not wearing a hijab properly. The state responded to the protests, one of the largest the country had witnessed, with a violent crackdown. Thousands were arrested, and many were killed, with young protesters sentenced to death in summary trials. 

During the current protests, initially, the regime acknowledged the demands of the protestors as legitimate, diverging from an immediate hardline stance. However, it quickly devolved into violent suppression, claims of external intervention, and media and communication blackouts, with death tolls that dwarfed the previous uprisings. 

Second, the escalating protests and humanitarian concerns. The protests, initially against economic issues, have evolved into demands for regime change and the fall of Khamenei’s rule. Nearly 20 days into the crisis, protests have spread into all 31 provinces in Iran and over 200 cities. As the regime intensifies the crackdown, rights groups, including Amnesty International and the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), have verified at least 2,571 fatalities. Senior Iranian officials have acknowledged around 3,000 deaths, although state media claims about 100 security forces being killed by “rioters.” Over 18,100 arrests have been recorded. The internet and communication blackout continue to disrupt the coordination among the masses. It has additionally constrained media and reporting. 

Third, Iran’s threats of retaliation and shifts in US response. Trump’s latest statement is a shift from his previous threats of military intervention against government repression. His earlier “locked and loaded” remarks signalling a military response and repeated reassurances to the protestors had incited a defensive posture from Tehran. It also threatened retaliatory strikes on several US bases across the region, which spans Qatar, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, and the UAE. The US military bases in the Middle East were originally established for counterterrorism and ensuring energy security. Washington’s withdrawal of personnel from the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and the forward headquarters for the US Central Command (CENTCOM) heightens the fear of a military intervention. 

Fourth, global responses and heightened caution. The escalating tensions in Iran, compounded by the US threats, have prompted a state of caution in the region and beyond. Qatar has assumed the role of mediator, fearing an attack within its territory. Saudi Arabia and Oman have affirmed cooperation with Iran. Anxiety over regional instability and the disruption of global oil trade is also high. Trump’s threats of 25 per cent tariffs on countries trading with Iran also have a notable impact. China, Iran’s largest trade partner, has condemned the US threat. Indian suppliers halted the supply of rice and pharmaceuticals to Iran. 

In perspective
Despite the intensifying unrest and increasing demands for regime change, Iran’s administration has remained united, diminishing the scope of a transition driven by internal fragmentation. Sustained and escalating state repression is likely to quell protests in the short term. However, the unrest has exposed significant cracks in the regime’s control over society, underscoring widespread frustration that extends into its traditional support bases. Increasing calls for the restoration of the monarchy, along with visible support for Reza Pahlavi, further challenge the regime’s political cohesion. Washington’s threats also add to the regime's instability. 

Even if the protests are ultimately contained and the regime endures, the faultlines of the administration have been revealed. With sanctions remaining in place and economic recovery expected to be slow, a return to political stability and economic normalcy will be difficult. As a result, sporadic episodes of civil unrest are likely to persist unless substantive administrative reforms are undertaken.

CW Column: Conflicts in Africa This Week
Instability in Nigeria: Intensifying domestic responses, and questions over Trump’s intervention
Anu Maria Joseph

What happened this week?
On 13 January, Reuters reported that the US delivered critical military supplies to Nigeria to support its fight against Islamic State militants. The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) stated that the delivery will support "Nigeria's ongoing operations and emphasises our shared security partnership."

On 13 January, the Nigerian government told the BBC that more than 200 Bandits were killed in central Nigeria in an ongoing operation.

On 9 January, US President Donald Trump said that he could order more strikes on Nigeria if Christians continue to be killed. He said: "I'd love to make it a one-time strike. But if they continue to kill Christians it will be a many-time strike." Meanwhile, Nigeria's spokesperson to the foreign ministry responded to BBC: We will continue to engage constructively and work with partners, including the United States, on the basis of mutual respect, international law, and Nigeria's sovereignty. Nigeria remains committed to protecting all citizens, Christians and Muslims alike, without discrimination."

What are the issues?
Nigeria: Intensification of domestic military operations, deepening Nigeria-US security cooperation and sovereignty sensitivities
Nigeria's peripheral regions, particularly in the north-western areas, have long faced security challenges due to a weak state presence. Banditry in these states, especially Niger, has continued despite renewed efforts by the Nigerian government to address the issue. 30 people were killed, and several were abducted in Kasuwan Daji market in Niger state on 6 January. In Kano state, thousands fled amidst fear of being killed by bandits this week. Spreading banditry also came after the US carried out an IS-targeted attack on Sokoto state, which prompted armed groups to flee and spread to other states.

Meanwhile, AFRICOM's assistance to Nigeria is part of a shared security partnership that highlights Nigeria's importance in US counterterrorism efforts in West Africa. It also reflects Nigeria's strategic and tactical military reliance on the US to counter jihadists/insurgents/bandit attacks across the country. However, the long-term capacity of this short-term assistance is uncertain. Besides, Trump has linked US military attacks as a response to the killing of Christians in the country, despite Nigerian President Bola Tinubu clarifying that the targets are not exclusively Christians. 

Trump's statements and stance suggesting further possible US strikes highlight the increasing sovereignty concerns in Abuja. Trump's religious framing, threats of unilateral actions and Nigeria's incapacity and dependence on US security assistance have increased fears of creating a perception of external leverage over the country's internal security issues. 

What does it mean?
The intensified domestic response to the security issues in Nigeria marks a positive development. However, these developments appear to be substantially dependent on the US support. The US-Nigeria security cooperation alone is unlikely to address the multifactor security crisis in Nigeria. A long-term security will depend on local response, presence of state forces and technical and military capacity to respond on time. Meanwhile, the continued scale of banditry suggests the challenge of durable security improvements, particularly in areas with weak governance and local grievances. Besides, Trump’s stance and increasing sovereignty concerns imply that Nigeria needs to balance security cooperation and external control over domestic security policies. 

Issues in Peace and Conflict This Week:
Regional Roundups
Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Lekshmi MK, Aparna A Nair, M Kejia, and Rizwana Banu

China, East, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific
South Korea: Former President Yoon Suk Yeol sentenced to five years in prison over failed 2024 martial law declaration
On 16 January, the Seoul Central District Court sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison for abuse of power, obstruction of justice, and falsification of documents related to his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024. The judge criticised Yoon for putting the country into a severe political crisis, disregarding the constitution, and showing no remorse. Yoon denied all wrongdoing and insisted that the charges were procedurally invalid. This marks the first verdict in a series of trials against him, and much more serious insurrection charges are still pending. A ruling is expected in February, and both sides have seven days to appeal.

Myanmar: NUG welcomes ICJ hearings, says junta has no legitimacy to represent Myanmar
On 12 January, Mizzima reported that Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG) welcomed the upcoming International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearings in The Gambia v. Myanmar case, scheduled to begin on 13 January, and asserted that it is the sole legitimate representative of Myanmar before the Court. The NUG stated that it has accepted the ICJ’s jurisdiction and withdrawn all preliminary objections previously filed, framing the proceedings as critical for justice for the Rohingya people and Myanmar’s future. The statement reiterated that the military junta lacks domestic legitimacy and is not recognised by the UN General Assembly, and therefore has no authority to represent Myanmar in international legal forums. The NUG warned that allowing the junta to appear before the ICJ would undermine the dignity of victims and global justice, stressing that any submissions made by the military regime do not reflect the will of the Myanmar people.

Myanmar: AA seizes strategic outposts as battle for Sittwe intensifies
On 12 January, Mizzima reported that the Arakan Army (AA) captured two strategic military outposts near the Regional Operations Command (ROC) in Sittwe, intensifying fighting around the Rakhine State capital. Military sources said junta forces lost control of outposts on Kan Kaw Kyun, forcing troops to retreat amid close-quarters combat, with reports of casualties and wounded soldiers captured. The junta has reportedly concentrated senior commanders in Sittwe, including the Western Command chief and the Bureau of Special Operations head, who are frequently relocating to avoid attack. Kan Kaw Kyun, along with Nar Yi Kan and Kyauk Tan bridges, is seen as vital to Sittwe’s defence, and sources indicated that if the AA consolidates control there, the fall of the city would be imminent.

Myanmar: ICJ hearings open as Gambia accuses Myanmar military of genocide against Rohingyas
On 13 January, Mizzima reported that formal hearings on the merits of The Gambia v. Myanmar case began at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), with Gambia’s Justice Minister Dawda Jallow accusing Myanmar’s military of intentionally targeting the Rohingya minority for destruction. Addressing the court, Jallow said the genocide was a deliberate policy carried out and stressed that no perpetrators had been held accountable to date. He noted that Myanmar’s former representative before the ICJ, Aung San Suu Kyi, is now detained by the military junta that seized power in 2021, while Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who commanded the army during the atrocities, now heads the Military Commission. Jallow told the judges that the case was not abstract but concerned “real people, real events and an entire community” subjected to targeted violence and impunity.

Myanmar pro-military party claims Suu Kyi’s seat in junta-run poll
On 13 January, Mizzima reported that the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) claimed victory in Kawhmu constituency, previously held by detained democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi, during the second phase of the junta-run parliamentary elections. A USDP official stated that the party won 15 out of 16 lower house seats in Yangon Region, though official results from the junta-controlled election commission have yet to be released. Under Myanmar’s military-drafted constitution, the armed forces will retain 25 per cent of parliamentary seats regardless of election outcomes.

South Asia
Pakistan: The CTD kills three TTP-linked militants in DI Khan
On 14 January, Dawn reported that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) killed three militants affiliated with Fitna-al-Khawarij, the state-designated term for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), during an intelligence-based operation in Dera Ismail Khan. Acting on confirmed intelligence, CTD teams surrounded the suspects, who opened fire to evade arrest, prompting retaliatory action in which all three were killed. Authorities recovered three Kalashnikovs, nine magazines, two hand grenades and ammunition from the site. The CTD said the militants were directly involved in attacks on police and security forces, and announced an expansion of search operations to apprehend facilitators in the area. KP’s police leadership praised the operation, while Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the CTD, reiterating the government’s resolve to intensify operations against militant groups. 

Bangladesh: Border Guard detains 53 ARSA fighters, raises alert along Myanmar border
On 13 January, Mizzima reported that Bangladesh placed its Myanmar border on “high alert” after Border Guard Bangladesh detained 53 members of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) for illegally crossing into its territory. The detentions followed intensified fighting across the border in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, where ARSA, the Arakan Army and the military junta are reportedly engaged in a three-way conflict involving ground clashes and air strikes. Bangladeshi officials said at least two people were injured in Cox’s Bazar amid the violence, while law enforcement agencies have been deployed in border villages to prevent further incursions and monitor security risks.

Central Asia
Kazakhstan: Calls for help from the US and Europe after drone attacks hit oil tankers
On 14 January, Kazakhstan called on the United States and European partners to help secure oil transport routes after drone attacks targeted tankers heading to a major Black Sea terminal on Russia’s coast. Unidentified drones struck at least two tankers on 13 January, including one chartered by US oil major Chevron. The tankers were en route to the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal, which handles about 1 per cent of global oil supply. Kazakhstan’s foreign ministry said that the rising frequency of such attacks poses growing risks to international energy infrastructure and urged coordinated measures to prevent further disruptions. The CPC, which accounts for nearly 80 per cent of Kazakhstan’s oil exports, has faced repeated attacks in recent weeks.

The Middle East and Africa
Iran: Tehran threatens to attack neighbours hosting US troops in the event of Washington’s intervention; Trump vows support to protestors, assures that “help is on the way”
On 14 January, Iran warned neighbouring countries hosting US military troops would be targeted if Washington strikes Tehran. "Tehran has told regional countries, from Saudi Arabia and the UAE to Turkey, that US bases in those countries will be attacked" if the US targets Iran, an Iranian official stated. Senior Israeli officials told Reuters that some personnel had been advised to leave the US military’s Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. The officials stated that the move was a “posture change,” rather than an “ordered evacuation.” They also stated that direct contacts between Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff had been suspended. Israeli officials revealed their assessment that Trump has decided to intervene, although the scope and timing of the intervention have not been determined.  In a televised interview, Trump had vowed that "very strong action" would be taken if Iran executes protesters, warning that "If they hang them, you're going to see some things.” He also urged the protestors to advance their actions, stating that “help is on the way.”

The War in Gaza: Hamas to elect the successor to Yahya Sinwar, sources tell Reuters
On 13 January, Reuters reported that Hamas is expected to elect a new leader with information from sources. The new leader would fill the position left vacant since the death of Yahya Sinwar in 2024. Reuters also reports that Khalil Al-Hayya and Khaled Meshaal could be the potential leaders and notes that both are in the five-man council. It is also reported that the election process has already begun. This election process involves a secret ballot by Hamas’ Shoura Council, which contains 50 members of Hamas. Hamas’ spokesperson has declined to comment on the same.

Iran: President Trump imposes a 25 per cent tariff rate on countries doing business with Iran; Iran acknowledges the high death toll for the first time, says Reuters
On 12 January, US President Trump stated that any country that does business with Iran will face a tariff rate of 25 per cent on any trade with the US. He said, "Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25 per cent on any business being done with the United States of America," and "This Order is final and conclusive." No further details have been disclosed so far. Iran is an OPEC oil-producing country, and countries like China, Turkey, Iraq, UAE and India are its top trading partners. On 13 January, Reuters reported that an Iranian official acknowledged for the first time that the protest claimed the lives of 2000. As the country witnesses its biggest protest in years, Reuters reports that Iranian authorities have taken a dual approach, acknowledging economic problems while enforcing a security crackdown. 

Iran: Trump hints at meeting with Iranian officials; Former IRGC commander states that US bases would be “legitimate targets,” warning Washington against "a miscalculation”
On 12 January, Trump claimed that Iranian officials had contacted the US to negotiate the terms of Tehran’s nuclear programme, and that US and Iranian officials might meet for further discussions. The US-based rights group HRANA stated that the verified death toll has increased to 490 protesters and 48 security personnel, with more than 10,600 people arrested. Trump was to meet with senior advisers to discuss options for Iran, including military strikes, using secret cyber weapons, widening sanctions and providing online help to anti-government sources, reports Reuters. "The military is looking at it, and we're looking at some very strong options," Trump told reporters travelling on Air Force One on Sunday night. In response, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned Washington against "a miscalculation,” adding that “in the case of an attack on Iran, the occupied territories (Israel) as well as all US bases and ships will be our legitimate target.”

Iran: Washington reiterates support for protestors in Tehran; Pahlavi issues a call to "seize city centres and hold them"
On 10 January, in response to the administration's efforts to curb the escalating protests, President Trump warned Tehran that "You better not start shooting because we'll start shooting too." "I just hope the protesters in Iran are going to be safe, because that's a very dangerous place right now," he added. The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also expressed Washington's support for the "brave people of Iran," following the state-imposed communication blackout in the country. The crown prince in exile, Reza Pahlavi, declared in a social media post that "Our goal is no longer merely to come into the streets; the goal is to prepare to seize city centres and hold them." He also urged "workers and employees in key sectors of the economy, especially transportation, oil, gas and energy", to begin a nationwide strike. Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned that safeguarding security was a "red line", and the military vowed to protect public property, accusing "terrorists" of attacking military and law enforcement bases over the past two nights, killing several citizens and security personnel. The military, operating independently from the IRGC, announced it would "protect and safeguard national interests, the country’s strategic infrastructure, and public property."

Syria: Turkey says use of force by Damascus remains an option
On 15 January, Turkey’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hakan Fidan, said that he hopes to resolve problems with Syria peacefully, but added that “when problems are not solved through dialogue, unfortunately, I see from here that the use of force is also an option for the Syrian government." Syria’s health ministry reported that five days of fighting in Aleppo claimed the lives of 23 people and led to the displacement of more than 150,000. Minister Fidan urged the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces to show goodwill and end the cycle of violence. He also said that the ongoing peace process with the PKK should not become a missed opportunity.

South Africa: China, Russia and Iran conduct 'WILL FOR PEACE 2026' naval exercise
On 10 January, China, Russia and Iran started a week-long joint naval exercise in South Africa. The statement from South Africa's military said, "Exercise WILL FOR PEACE 2026 brings together navies from BRICS Plus countries for ... joint maritime safety operations (and) interoperability drills." In the opening ceremony led by China's military officials, BRICS plus countries, including Brazil, Egypt and Ethiopia, participated as observers.

Europe and the Americas
The War in Ukraine: "I think Ukraine is less ready to make a deal," says US President Trump
On 15 January, in an interview with Reuters, US President Trump stated that Ukraine is less ready to make a deal, contradicting European allies who argue that Moscow is less interested. This statement was in response to the question of why US-led negotiations have not resolved Europe's largest conflict since World War II.  Referring to Putin, President Trump said, "I think he's ready to make a deal." Following that, Russia's spokesperson said, "I agree, that is indeed the case. President Putin and the Russian side remain open to talks. The Russian position is well known. It is well known to the American negotiators, to President Trump, and to the leadership of the Kyiv regime."

The War in Ukraine: Norway to provide EUR 340 million to support Kyiv’s energy sector
On 12 November, Norway announced that it will provide EUR 340 million in emergency funding to support and maintain Ukraine’s energy sector as Russian attacks repeatedly targeted Ukraine’s energy network. Last year, the Norwegian parliament allocated NOK 70 billion to military support and NOK 15 billion to civilian and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, of which NOK 4.8 billion was allotted to energy security and supply. This occurred as EU leaders recently agreed to a EUR 90 billion loan and increased support for Ukraine from European countries.

Greenland: European allies send military personnel to Nuuk 
On 15 January, military personnel from several European countries, including France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway, began arriving in Greenland as part of preparations for joint exercises and increased Arctic defence activities. European allies are coordinating with Denmark and Greenland to enhance military presence and reassure their commitment to the island’s sovereignty, underscoring concerns over Trump’s proposals. A recent trilateral meeting in Washington between the US, Denmark, and Greenland's officials produced no resolution on Trump’s stance, leaving disagreements unresolved. Trump has argued that US control of Greenland is necessary to prevent Russian or Chinese influence in the Arctic.

Greenland: Copenhagen and Nuuk to hold high-stakes talks with the US; Trump says, "NATO would be far more formidable with Greenland in the hands of the US" 
On 16, the media reported that Denmark and Greenland will hold a high-level meeting with US officials. Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said that the talks are expected to involve US Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland and other senior officials. The talks are framed as urgent discussions on security cooperation, Arctic defence, and regional stability. Meanwhile, President Trump reiterated that NATO would be a more formidable alliance if the United States controlled Greenland, citing its strategic position in the Arctic. His remarks came as NATO allies affirm they remain committed to collective defence and maintaining territorial integrity for Denmark and Greenland. PM Frederiksen said the upcoming meeting would focus on how best to strengthen defence cooperation without undermining Greenland’s status, emphasising the need to uphold sovereignty and international law. Greenland’s leaders have repeatedly rejected incorporation into the United States, instead advocating for maintained autonomy and dialogue within established legal frameworks.

Greenland: Denmark faces a defence dilemma over Greenland; Nuuk's Parliament prepares talks on US threats 
On 10 January, the media reported that Denmark is grappling with how to defend Greenland, its vast Arctic territory. This came amid the renewed US interest and threats from President Donald Trump prompt strategic reassessment. Denmark's defence officials acknowledge that protecting Greenland poses challenges given its remote location, sparse population, and limited infrastructure, raising questions about how best to strengthen the territory’s security. Government efforts to increase military presence in the Arctic, including a multi-billion-dollar investment, are ongoing, but Copenhagen recognises that effective defence will require coordination with NATO allies and broader strategic planning.

Meanwhile, Greenland’s Parliament announced that it will convene a meeting to discuss threats from the United States and other developments that may impact its future. The move reflects growing local concern over sovereignty and external pressure following Trump’s renewed threat to acquire Greenland. Greenland’s lawmakers plan examine the implications of these threats and debate how best to respond, including possible diplomatic and legislative measures.

Venezuela: Opposition leader and Nobel laureate María Machado gives her Nobel Peace prize to Trump in recognition of "his unique commitment to [Venezuela's] freedom"
On 16 January, Venezuela's opposition leader María Corina Machado gave her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House. She stated that it was "a recognition for his unique commitment to our freedom." The Nobel Prize Committee responded in a social media post, stating that "a medal can change owners, but the title of a Nobel Peace Prize laureate cannot." President Trump welcomed the act as "a wonderful gesture of mutual respect," but declined to endorse Machado as Venezuela's new leader. On the same day, CIA Director John Ratcliffe met Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodriguez in Caracas to discuss cooperation. The visit marks the most senior known visit by a US official since Washington's intervention. A White House official stated that the meeting was  at the direction of President Donald Trump, "to deliver the message that the United States looks forward to an improved working relationship." The discussions focused on intelligence cooperation, economic stability and the need to ensure Venezuela was no longer a "safe haven for America's adversaries, especially narco-traffickers," and was an effort to build mutual trust between Washington and Caracas.

US and Cuba: "THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA - ZERO!," says Trump; Cuba's President says, "Nobody dictates what we do"
On 12 January, US President Trump stated that Cuba would not receive any Venezuelan oil or money and suggested that Cuba strike a deal with the US. He said, "THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA - ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE." He also stated that Cuba has been receiving a large amount of oil and money from Venezuela. In response, Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel said, "Cuba is a free, independent, and sovereign nation. Nobody dictates what we do," and "Cuba does not attack; it has been attacked by the US for 66 years, and it does not threaten; it prepares, ready to defend the homeland to the last drop of blood." Additionally, Cuba's Foreign Minister stated that the country has the right to import fuel from any willing suppliers and denied receipt of financial or other material compensations for the security services provided to the government. No cargoes have been sent from Venezuela's port to Cuba since the capture of Venezula President by the US. As per the latest literature, Venezuela covers 50 per cent of Cuba's oil deficit. On the other hand, Washington and Caracus official are working on a USD two billion deal that supplies 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil to the US.

About the authors
Brighty Ann Sarah and R Preetha are postgraduate students at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. Lekshmi MK is a postgraduate student at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai. Rizwana Banu, and Aparna A Nair are undergraduate students at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai. M Kejia is an undergraduate student at the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry. 

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