|   2026-02-10 08:12:50

Fuel crisis in Cuba. Russia blames the US for stifling the economy

Russia has declared that the fuel situation in Cuba is critical and accused the United States of attempting to "strangle" the local economy. Moscow has also declared its solidarity with Cuba and Venezuela and pledged to oppose any military intervention.

Havana is facing a deepening energy crisis. Last Friday, the Cuban government presented a plan to deal with the situation, which includes protecting essential services and strictly rationing fuel.

This is in response to the actions of US President Donald Trump's administration, which has designated Cuba as an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to US national security and announced that it will halt Venezuelan oil supplies. Washington has also threatened other countries with tariffs if they continue to supply fuel to the island.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stressed that Russia is aware of the seriousness of the situation and is maintaining intensive contacts with its Cuban partners in order to find solutions or provide assistance. He also responded to questions about the shortage of jet fuel, which could affect transport and travel, as Cuba has warned airlines of a shortage and some companies have already suspended flights.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov noted that Moscow rejects unilateral sanctions. The Russian ambassador to Cuba added that Russia is continuing to supply oil to the island.

(reuters, max)