Russia prepares to send oil to Cuba amid the crisis

Russia is preparing to send crude oil and fuel to Cuba as humanitarian aid, the Russian newspaper reported on Thursday (12). Izvestiaciting the Moscow embassy in Havana.

The shipment comes amid the worst energy crisis faced by the island in years, after the United States blocked the supply of Venezuelan oil, causing a shortage of aviation kerosene, the suspension of flights and energy rationing.

Cuba faces increasing difficulties in maintaining domestic fuel supplies. This week, authorities on the island alerted international airlines that jet fuel was no longer available, leading to the suspension of flights and reduced operations at airports such as Havana and Varadero.

Blackouts have been recorded in different regions, while public services and transport operate with restrictions.

According to the IzvestiaRussian diplomats confirmed that “the supply of oil and oil products from Russia to Cuba as humanitarian aid is planned in the near future.”

Read more: Mexico challenges possible US sanctions amid support for Cuba

The Kremlin did not detail volumes or dates, but said it was in contact with Havana to discuss forms of assistance.

“We are in close dialogue with our Cuban friends and are evaluating support options,” said spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

The last major Russian shipment of oil to the island occurred in February 2025, when Moscow sent 100,000 tons in the form of a state loan.

Analysts interviewed by the Russian press estimate that, if the volume is similar, the shipment would be enough for a few weeks of consumption, given the current level of scarcity.

The Cuban energy crisis worsened after Washington blocked Venezuelan exports destined for the island and announced punitive tariffs against countries that trade oil with Havana.

The measure expanded the extraterritorial reach of US sanctions and raised fears among Latin American governments and trading partners about possible retaliation.

On Wednesday (11), Russia’s federal aviation agency reported that Russian airlines will only operate return flights to remove tourists from the island, citing refueling difficulties.

Around 5,000 Russian citizens are still in Cuba, according to the Russian Association of Tour Operators.