Moscow is continuing its energy support for Havana. As confirmed on Thursday by the Russian Energy Minister, Sergei Tsivilyov, another oil tanker is being prepared for departure to Cuba. This decision comes shortly after the first shipment reached the island earlier this week, effectively ending a three-month period during which the country was completely cut off from fuel supplies by the United States.
A Humanitarian Exception or a Change of Course?
For the past few months, the Donald Trump administration has pursued a „maximum pressure” policy, threatening tariffs and other restrictions against any nation that chose to supply fuel to the Communist government. However, on Monday, the White House took an unexpected step back. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that the U.S. Coast Guard allowed the Russian vessel to dock for „humanitarian reasons.”
Despite this, Washington is downplaying speculation about a permanent softening of its stance. Leavitt emphasized that the sanctions policy has not changed and that each shipment will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Currently, the White House is refusing to comment on whether the second Russian ship will also be granted permission to enter the port.
Cuba on the Brink of Collapse
The energy situation in Cuba has been dire since January, when the U.S. took control of oil exports from Venezuela—the island’s previous primary supplier. The fuel shortage has paralyzed the nation:
- Frequent power outages have become a daily reality.
- The healthcare system and waste collection are on the verge of collapse.
- The first delivery (approx. 730,000 barrels) is estimated by analysts to provide relief for only a few weeks.
Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz publicly thanked Russia for its solidarity in the face of what he described as the „U.S. policy of economic asphyxiation.”
Pressure on Mexico and Diplomacy in Moscow
Russia is not the only country under pressure from Washington. Last week, President Trump spoke with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, explicitly suggesting that her government refrain from sending fuel to the island. Nevertheless, Sheinbaum declared on Monday that Mexico is still analyzing the possibility of resuming shipments.
At the same time, a delegation of Cuban officials is in Russia, holding talks on strengthening bilateral relations and further energy cooperation, which is becoming Havana’s only chance to avoid a total national paralysis.
