Original Source
Russia to Send Second Oil Tanker to Cuba Amid Energy Crisis
Russia to Support Cuba's Energy Needs
Russia plans to send a second oil tanker to Cuba, as announced by Russia's Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilyov, reiterating Moscow's solidarity with the Caribbean nation. Experts suggest that the Russian shipment could meet Cuba's demand for nine or ten days. This announcement comes just two days after a sanctioned Russian tanker docked at the Cuban port of Matanzas, carrying 730,000 barrels of oil. This marked the first time in three months that an oil tanker reached the island.
US Blockade and Cuban Hardship
Sergei Tsivilyov emphasized that Cuba is under a "total blockade" and that a Russian vessel broke through it. He stated that Russia would not leave Cubans "alone in trouble." In late January, US President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on any country that sold or supplied oil to Cuba. Cuba produces barely 40% of its required fuel and relies on imports, making the US energy blockade particularly impactful. This has led to severe blackouts, cuts to the state-run food ration system, and shortages of water and medicine, with the island's most vulnerable population being the hardest hit.
*Source: YouTube: Euronews (2026-04-03)*
