A Russian oil tanker has arrived near Cuba carrying a major shipment of crude, marking the first delivery to the island in months amid a deepening energy crisis.
The vessel, identified as the Anatoly Kolodkin, is transporting roughly 100,000 tonnes of oil described as humanitarian aid.
The shipment comes after U.S. President Donald Trump said he had “no problem” with countries, including Russia, sending oil to Cuba, suggesting a possible easing of a U.S.-imposed fuel blockade. The blockade had significantly reduced fuel supplies to the island, contributing to widespread blackouts and economic strain.
Cuba has been facing severe shortages for months after key oil shipments were disrupted, forcing cuts to electricity and affecting essential services, including hospitals. Health officials have warned that limited fuel supplies have strained emergency and intensive care operations.
Russian officials said the delivery was intended to support Cuba during what they described as a difficult period caused by sanctions pressure.
The tanker is expected to offload its cargo at the Matanzas terminal, providing temporary relief to the country’s energy sector.
Analysts say the move may signal a shift in U.S. enforcement of the blockade, though it remains unclear whether the change is temporary or part of a broader policy adjustment. The situation continues to be closely monitored as diplomatic contacts between Washington and Havana remain limited.
