US President Donald Trump said Saturday that the United States has started discussions with Cuban leaders as his administration intensifies pressure on the island by restricting key oil supplies.

The comments came while Trump was traveling to Florida, following recent moves to block Cuba’s access to oil from Venezuela and Mexico.

Trump indicated that these measures are intended to push Cuba toward negotiations. “We’re starting to talk to Cuba,” he told reporters, without providing details on the level or scope of the outreach. He suggested that the Cuban government is close to collapse and predicted a potential deal with the U.S., saying Washington would be “kind” in any negotiations.

The restrictions on oil imports have strained Cuba’s economy. Trump signed an executive order this week imposing tariffs on any country supplying oil to the island, targeting Mexico after U.S. actions halted Venezuela’s shipments following the capture of its former President Nicolás Maduro in early January. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned that the measures could trigger a humanitarian crisis and said her government is exploring alternatives to continue supporting Cuba.

Trump’s shift toward Cuba follows broader efforts to confront nations seen as U.S. adversaries in the region. His recent policies reflect a strategy to isolate Havana economically while signaling that negotiations are possible under pressure.

Read More: Trump says Iran negotiating with U.S.

The president has not detailed the objectives of the talks but suggested that U.S. pressure on oil supplies will compel Cuba to negotiate. Observers say the latest actions mark a significant escalation in U.S. policy toward Cuba, combining economic restrictions with the opening of limited diplomatic channels.