The Jasper tanker, currently under sanctions from the European Union and the United Kingdom, reached Cuba's northwestern coast on Tuesday, carrying an estimated 330,000 barrels of Russian crude oil.
According to Marine Traffic data reviewed by EFE, the tanker was drifting about 15.7 nautical miles (approximately 29 km) north of Matanzas Bay.
The source noted that the vessel sails under the flag of Vanuatu and likely departed from the Black Sea around November 14. Due to its draft, the tanker is believed to be "fully loaded" with the estimated volume of crude.
The Jasper's arrival marks the third vessel to dock in Cuba in less than a week, following two prior shipments from Mexico, during a period described as critical due to prolonged blackouts plaguing the island.
The 330,000 barrels are expected to "slightly ease" Cuba's daily crude shortfall.
Nonetheless, Cuba's basic energy needs demand approximately 110,000 barrels per day, with around 40,000 barrels coming from domestic production.
The EFE report further highlights that, according to the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), 60% of the fuel consumed in Cuba is imported, with 65% of the total required fueling the country’s thermoelectric plants.
Independent studies suggest that nearly half of Cuba's fuel needs are met through imports from Venezuela, Mexico, and to a lesser extent, Russia. However, the studies also indicate that shipments from Venezuela have dwindled since 2024, and Mexico has also cut back on deliveries, amid escalating regional pressures.
The Jasper, sanctioned by the European Union, is part of the so-called "phantom fleet" employed by Russia to transport oil.
The tanker's arrival coincides with the United States intensifying its maritime blockade against sanctioned vessels transporting Venezuelan oil, resulting in the seizure of three tankers in the past ten days.
In response, Russia last week demanded an explanation from the United States for the seizure of an oil tanker in waters near Venezuela, an action announced by U.S. President Donald Trump as part of an operation targeting drug trafficking and oil smuggling.
Understanding the Impact of Sanctions on Cuban Oil Imports
Why is the Jasper tanker significant for Cuba?
The Jasper tanker is significant as it brings a substantial amount of Russian crude oil to Cuba, helping to slightly alleviate the country's daily crude deficit amid ongoing energy shortages.
How does Cuba meet its energy needs?
Cuba requires around 110,000 barrels of oil per day for basic energy needs, of which about 40,000 barrels come from domestic production. The rest is largely imported, primarily from Venezuela, Mexico, and Russia.
What is the "phantom fleet" used by Russia?
The "phantom fleet" refers to a network of vessels, like the Jasper tanker, that Russia uses to transport oil while circumventing international sanctions.