Russia is preparing to send oil and fuel to Cuba as “humanitarian aid,” according to a report published Thursday by the Russian newspaper Izvestia. The move comes as Cuba grapples with a severe energy crisis and increasing restrictions on fuel supplies.
The Russian Ministry of Economic Development told Izvestia, “As far as we know, Russia is expected to soon supply Cuba with oil and petroleum products as humanitarian assistance.”
Cuba is currently facing its worst energy crisis in years, largely due to restrictions on crude oil deliveries from Venezuela. The Cuban government has implemented strict rationing measures in response to the shortages, even preventing airlines from refueling on the island.
These fuel shortages have already impacted international air travel to Cuba. Russia’s federal aviation regulator, Rosaviatsia, stated Wednesday that difficulties in securing fuel supplies “forced” Rossiya Airlines and Nordwind Airlines to adjust their flight schedules to Cuban airports.
“Rossiya Airlines will operate several return flights – from Havana and Varadero to Moscow – to ensure the evacuation of Russian tourists currently in Cuba,” Rosaviatsia said in a statement. The agency likewise advised Russian citizens to refrain from traveling to Cuba until the situation stabilizes.
The Kremlin, a long-standing ally of Havana, accused the United States on Monday of attempting to “strangle” Cuba. This development underscores the ongoing geopolitical competition for influence in the region.
Several other international airlines, including Air Transat and WestJet of Canada, have also suspended flights to Cuba due to the fuel scarcity.
