Havana, Cuba. Russia is preparing to dispatch crude oil and fuel cargoes to Cuba in the near future as humanitarian aid, Izvestia newspaper reported on Thursday, citing the Russian embassy in Cuba.
Planned shipments and recent supply history
A Russian embassy diplomat was quoted by Izvestia as saying supplies of crude and oil products were expected from Russia to Cuba in the near future as humanitarian aid. The newspaper said Russia last supplied Cuba with oil in February 2025, delivering a cargo of 100,000 metric tons.
Cuba’s fuel crunch and changes in supply
Cuba has experienced a fuel crunch as the United States has moved to cut off the communist-run nation’s oil supply. Cuba has warned international airlines that jet fuel will no longer be available on the island, in what was described as the latest sign of fast-worsening conditions.
Cuba has historically relied on Venezuela to provide much of its jet fuel, but it has not received any crude or refined products from its top ally since mid-December, when the United States moved to block Venezuela’s exports.
Russia’s statements and flight plans
Russia has said the fuel situation in Cuba was critical and that U.S. attempts to “suffocate” the island’s economy were causing many difficulties. It pledged to act against any sort of military intervention and expressed solidarity with Cuba and Venezuela.
Russia also said on Wednesday it would suspend flights to Cuba once Russian tourists leave the island.
How do you think the planned Russian fuel shipments could affect Cuba’s immediate fuel shortages?
