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Mexican Ships Depart with Humanitarian Aid for Cuba: Over 800 Tons of Supplies Sent

Monday, February 9, 2026 by Hannah Aguilar

Mexican Ships Depart with Humanitarian Aid for Cuba: Over 800 Tons of Supplies Sent
Mexican Navy Ship - Image © SRE

This past Sunday, two vessels from the Mexican Navy set sail from Veracruz port, carrying more than 814 tons of humanitarian aid intended for the Cuban populace.

The Mexican Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE) announced that these ships are expected to reach the island in approximately four days.

According to the statement, this shipment was ordered by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and is being transported aboard the logistic support ships, Papaloapan and Isla Holbox.

The official report specifies that the Papaloapan is loaded with 536 tons of essential goods, including liquid milk, meat products, beans, rice, canned tuna, sardines, vegetable oil, along with personal hygiene items.

Meanwhile, the Isla Holbox, which departed at noon, is carrying just over 277 tons of powdered milk.

The SRE statement also confirms that more than 1,500 tons of powdered milk and beans are slated for future shipments.

These deliveries originate from the Central Naval Region and were gathered at the National Port System Administration (Asipona) Veracruz dock, where the loading took place.

The Mexican government framed this initiative as part of the country’s longstanding tradition of solidarity with Latin America, particularly with Cuba, highlighting Mexico’s history of providing assistance.

Furthermore, the statement emphasized the reinforcement of "humanistic" principles and Mexico's dedication to international cooperation, underscoring the historical ties between the two nations.

Sheinbaum previously mentioned that the coordination of this aid has been conducted through diplomatic channels and Mexican authorities, with the support of Lázaro Cárdenas Batel, head of the Presidential Office, and the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs.

This humanitarian aid dispatch follows a declaration last Tuesday by Pemex’s director, Víctor Rodríguez Padilla, stating that the state-owned company had sent oil to Cuba in 2025 valued at $496 million, maintaining a single active commercial contract with the island.

In recent days, Mexico acknowledged halting shipments to Cuba to prevent U.S. tariffs but affirmed that humanitarian aid will continue.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mexican Aid to Cuba

What is the primary content of the humanitarian aid sent by Mexico to Cuba?

The aid mainly consists of essential goods such as liquid milk, meat products, beans, rice, canned tuna, sardines, vegetable oil, and personal hygiene items.

Why did Mexico halt some shipments to Cuba recently?

Mexico paused certain shipments to avoid triggering tariffs from the United States, although they committed to continuing humanitarian aid deliveries.

How is the aid to Cuba being coordinated?

The coordination is being handled through diplomatic channels and the Mexican authorities, with support from Lázaro Cárdenas Batel and the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs.

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