Mexico's President, Claudia Sheinbaum, acknowledged on Thursday that her administration is sending fuel to Cuba, defending the action by categorizing it as part of the "humanitarian aid" Mexico extends to other nations. During a press conference broadcasted by the National Left Network on X, Sheinbaum faced questions from a journalist regarding reports by U.S. congress members about Mexican oil shipments to the island, which could potentially impact trade relations between Mexico and the United States.
The reporter inquired, "Has Mexico been supplying fuel to Cuba? How much and in exchange for what?" In response, Sheinbaum stated, "Yes, it's a purchase of fuel, just like other countries do. At present, there is a surplus of diesel in particular, and it is being exported. And just as... firstly, humanitarian aid, in any case, Mexico will always provide it, always, to Cuba and other countries in need. That's our essence, humanism, always."
Sheinbaum emphasized that the diesel shipments to Cuba are part of commercial and humanitarian agreements that are "conducted transparently," comparing them to the program involving Cuban doctors working in rural Mexican communities. "The Cuban doctors in Mexico have a very transparent contract. Payment is made for their stay here, due to Mexico's need. For years, the training of specialists was halted, and they generously come to support," she affirmed.
Once more, the Mexican government solidifies its position as one of the primary supporters of the Cuban regime. In response to criticisms from a Miami congressman who cautioned that these shipments might affect the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Sheinbaum was unequivocal: "No, it will not affect anything. The United States knows that Mexico is an independent, free, and sovereign country, and the decisions we make are sovereign decisions," she stressed.
Sheinbaum stated that the bilateral relationship with Washington is "very good" and noted that Juan Ramón de la Fuente, Mexico's representative at the UN, recently met with the U.S. Secretary of State in an "amicable and cordial" meeting. According to Sheinbaum, pending commercial issues "are practically resolved," and security meetings between both nations will continue in Mexico in the coming weeks.
The Economic and Diplomatic Implications
The government led by Claudia Sheinbaum has significantly increased oil and derivative shipments to Cuba, cementing an energy policy that directly benefits the Cuban regime. An investigation by Mexicans Against Corruption and Impunity disclosed that in just four months, 58 shipments totaling over $3 billion were dispatched, tripling the amount sent during the final two years of López Obrador's administration. These shipments, managed through the subsidiary Gasolinas Bienestar, have even utilized the Cuban ship Sandino, which is sanctioned by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control.
Despite the diplomatic and financial risks, these operations proceed regularly, while the state-owned company refuses to disclose details about payments, amounts, and terms, claiming it is a "private matter."
Concerns Over Medical Program Transparency
Moreover, a journalistic investigation revealed that the costly medical program lacks official evaluation. Neither the IMSS, the Secretariat of Health, nor IMSS-Bienestar has been able to verify if the Cuban professionals fulfill their duties, while the accumulated expenditure surpasses $105 million. The funds are transferred directly to the Cuban regime, and the doctors work under conditions described as labor exploitation and lack of minimum guarantees, without reports on their performance, number of consultations, or locations.
Key Questions About Mexico's Oil Shipments to Cuba
Why does Mexico send oil to Cuba?
Mexico sends oil to Cuba as part of its humanitarian aid policy. Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the shipments are conducted transparently as part of commercial agreements, similar to the program involving Cuban doctors in Mexico.
What are the potential impacts of these oil shipments on Mexico's relationship with the U.S.?
While concerns have been raised about the impact on the USMCA, Claudia Sheinbaum has emphasized that these shipments will not affect the agreement, asserting Mexico's sovereignty in its decisions.
How much oil has Mexico sent to Cuba recently?
In a span of four months, Mexico dispatched 58 shipments of oil and derivatives to Cuba, valued at over $3 billion, which is three times the amount sent during the last two years of President López Obrador's term.