Amid growing diplomatic and economic tensions, Russia has confirmed its commitment to continue supplying oil to Cuba, despite the Trump administration's threats of sanctions against countries that send oil to the island.
In a conversation with the Russian media outlet RIA, Viktor Coronelli, Russia's ambassador to Cuba, assured that the oil supply to Cuba "will persist."
When asked if Cuban authorities had reached out to Russia to secure local supplies of Russian oil, he responded:
"For several years, Cuba has grappled with a severe shortage of oil and petroleum products. Naturally, the disruption of supply from Venezuela has worsened this situation. The island is working to increase its oil production, with the involvement of our state company, Zarubezhneft, and is also seeking alternative external partners. Russian oil has been supplied to Cuba on several occasions in recent years. We foresee this practice continuing."
Coronelli emphasized that Moscow's energy support is neither circumstantial nor spontaneous, but a sustained policy.
This decision is particularly significant in a context where the Trump administration has intensified its warnings, threatening to impose tariffs or sanctions on countries that supply crude oil to Cuba.
The ambassador stressed that maintaining oil shipments is vital for the economic stability of the island, which is severely affected by the tightening of the U.S. embargo.
"The oil supply to Cuba is part of our bilateral cooperation and plays a strategic role against the economic strangulation attempts led by the United States," Coronelli stated.
Russian Diplomatic Support Amid U.S. Pressure
Russia's stance comes amid escalating rhetoric and actions by President Donald Trump, who recently described Cuba as an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to U.S. national security.
Additionally, Trump announced that his administration has begun "conversations with the highest authorities in Cuba," though he did not specify the content of these discussions.
Trump has specifically warned of economic sanctions against third countries that continue to send crude to the Cuban government.
In the past, Washington had already taken measures to prevent Venezuelan oil—a key source for Havana—from reaching the island. Now, the focus seems to extend to Russia and Mexico, the other two main suppliers of hydrocarbons for the Caribbean country.
These restrictions have visibly impacted daily life in Cuba: fuel shortages, prolonged power outages, and rising transportation and food prices.
With an estimated internal demand of around 110,000 barrels per day, the continuity of international supply is crucial for the basic functioning of the Cuban economy.
Solidarity and Resilience from Russia
From the United Nations, Russia's permanent ambassador to the organization, Vasily Nebenzya, reaffirmed his country's political backing of Cuba.
"Russia will continue to support its Cuban allies in every possible way," he declared, expressing his belief that new U.S. sanctions "will not break the spirit of the Island of Freedom."
Nebenzya praised the unity of the Cuban people and their government in the face of what he described as "endless pressure" from Washington. He also committed to further developing bilateral cooperation in various areas, including energy, diplomacy, and economics.
"The new unilateral sanctions from the White House will not weaken the island's determination," he affirmed, alluding to the historical resistance narrative that has characterized the Moscow-Havana relationship since the Cold War.
International Reactions and Continued Energy Partnerships
In line with this stance, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, labeled the U.S. coercive measures as "unacceptable."
In her view, sanctions imposed without the backing of the UN Security Council constitute a violation of international law.
"We strongly condemn the illegitimate prohibitive steps directed against Havana," Zakharova said, pointing out that Washington is pursuing a "maximum pressure" strategy aimed solely at "economically suffocating Cuba."
Echoing this support, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov recently engaged in a phone conversation with his Cuban counterpart, Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla. During the exchange, Lavrov reiterated Moscow's "firm commitment" to continue providing the political and material support necessary for Cuba to withstand the economic siege led by Washington.
Mexico's Role in Supporting Cuba Amid U.S. Sanctions
In parallel to the Russian declarations, the Mexican government has also reiterated its decision to continue oil shipments to Cuba. Mexican Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente stated that Mexico will continue to provide humanitarian aid "wherever it is needed," characterizing it as a historical conviction of Mexican foreign policy.
Pemex's General Director, Victor Rodriguez, confirmed that shipments to Cuba are supported by a commercial contract in effect since 2023, which represents $496 million in revenue for Mexico.
Despite pressure, Mexican officials assert that this agreement represents only a minimal fraction of the state oil company's production and sales, so its continuation does not jeopardize Mexico's public finances.
Implications of U.S. Sanctions on Cuba's Oil Supply
How does Russia plan to continue supporting Cuba despite U.S. sanctions?
Russia plans to maintain its oil supply to Cuba as part of its bilateral cooperation, viewing it as a strategic measure against U.S. economic pressure. This support is part of a sustained policy rather than a temporary or improvised action.
What impact have U.S. sanctions had on Cuba's daily life?
U.S. sanctions have led to visible impacts on daily life in Cuba, including fuel shortages, extended power outages, and increased prices for transportation and food.
What role does Mexico play in supporting Cuba's oil needs?
Mexico continues to support Cuba by sending oil under a commercial contract, viewing it as a humanitarian effort. This support from Mexico complements Russia's efforts and does not significantly affect Mexico's public finances.