Moscow has sharply criticized U.S. Sanctions that have led to an acute fuel crisis in Cuba, accusing Washington of employing a “strangulation tactic.” The situation on the Caribbean island is critical, Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov said Monday in Moscow.
Russia is in intensive contact with the Cuban government and is examining all possible forms of assistance. Moscow will also resist any kind of military intervention, Peskov added. The development underscores the increasingly complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov echoed the solidarity of Moscow with both Cuba and Venezuela, stating that Russia opposes “neocolonial practices” on the ministry’s website. The current crisis stems from an acute kerosene shortage in Cuba caused by the U.S. Blockade of oil shipments from Venezuela.
The U.S. Government under President Donald Trump has justified the sanctions by asserting that Cuba poses a threat to U.S. National security and should no longer receive oil deliveries from Venezuela. As a result of the shortage, Air Canada announced Monday the suspension of its flights. This disruption highlights the immediate impact of the sanctions on civilian travel.
The Russian ambassador in Havana stated that Moscow will continue to supply oil to Cuba. This commitment signals Russia’s intent to maintain its economic ties with the island nation despite U.S. Pressure. Lavrov’s statement and the ambassador’s pledge come amid growing international concern over the escalating situation in Cuba.
