Russia is set to deliver crude oil and fuel to Cuba as humanitarian aid in the coming weeks, according to a report by Izvestia citing the Russian embassy in Havana. The move comes as Cuba faces severe fuel shortages following U.S. sanctions that have disrupted its traditional supply chains.
Cuba's Deepening Energy Crisis
Cuba's fuel crunch has reached critical levels in early 2026, with authorities warning international airlines about dwindling jet fuel supplies. The Caribbean nation, which historically relied on Venezuela for 70% of its energy needs, has not received oil shipments from its South American ally since mid-December 2025 after U.S. intervention blocked Venezuelan exports.
Russia's Strategic Support
A Russian embassy official confirmed plans for near-term energy shipments, marking the first such delivery since February 2025 when Moscow supplied 100,000 metric tons of oil. The new consignment aims to stabilize Cuba's economy and counter what Russian officials describe as "U.S. attempts to suffocate" the island nation.
Geopolitical Implications
This development strengthens Moscow's strategic partnership with Havana while challenging Washington's sanctions regime. Russia has explicitly condemned potential military intervention in the region and reaffirmed solidarity with both Cuba and Venezuela, signaling renewed great-power competition in the Caribbean basin.
