Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced her administration's willingness to establish an airlift to Cuba, contingent upon a formal request from Havana. This comes amidst a severe energy crisis plaguing the island, leading to flight cancellations and disruptions in aviation fuel supply.
"If Cuba makes the request, we are ready to accommodate it," Sheinbaum stated during a press conference, emphasizing that the initiative hinges on the Cuban government's official solicitation.
She clarified that "Mexican airline flights to Cuba remain operational."
The potential airlift is part of broader support efforts by Mexico in response to Cuba's escalating energy struggles, exacerbated by sanctions imposed by the Trump administration. On Wednesday, Sheinbaum reassured that Mexico continues its humanitarian assistance to Cuba, including the provision of jet fuel for Cuban aircraft.
"Flights from Mexico to the island have not been suspended; they refuel here in Mexico. It's important for the public to know," she highlighted, according to statements gathered by Informador.
Jet fuel, a petroleum-based aviation fuel combining kerosene and gasoline, powers gas turbine engines in jets and helicopters. This supply arrives at a time when fuel shortages in Cuba have necessitated adjustments and flight suspensions by foreign airlines.
Mexico's Diplomatic Maneuvers and Humanitarian Aid
Simultaneously, Sheinbaum confirmed that diplomatic efforts are underway to resume oil shipments to Cuba, expressing disapproval of U.S. sanctions that hinder this trade.
"You can't strangle a nation like this; it's incredibly unjust," she declared, urging for the cessation of sanctions and continued support for the Cuban populace.
Sheinbaum further stated that her government is actively working to prevent potential economic repercussions.
"We are employing all diplomatic channels to avoid tariffs on Mexico for sending oil to Cuba. Additionally, we are making an international appeal, including to the United States," she remarked, referencing Trump's directive to impose tariffs on nations exporting crude to Cuba.
This week, Mexico dispatched two ships carrying over 814 tons of supplies and other humanitarian goods to Cuba. The president announced plans for a second shipment to fulfill the goal of 800 tons of supplies, with the potential for increased volume if resources permit.
Moreover, Sheinbaum invited civil society organizations to contribute through coordinated food and medicine drives, in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior.
Efforts for Dialogue and Continued Engagement
The offer of an airlift arises amid Cuba's deteriorating energy landscape, characterized by extended blackouts, fuel shortages, and airport supply challenges.
On Thursday, Sheinbaum reiterated Mexico's readiness to mediate between Cuba and the United States, proposing Mexico as a bridge to facilitate dialogue between the two nations.
She explained that her administration has communicated to both the U.S. State Department and its embassy in Mexico their willingness to aid in rapprochement, while respecting Cuban sovereignty.
Mexico "is committed to fostering peaceful dialogue," she asserted, arguing that Cuba ought to receive oil and its derivatives without facing sanctions.
Cuban Ambassador to Mexico, Eugenio Martínez, confirmed that flights to Cuba from Mexican territory remain uninterrupted, with airlines maintaining regular schedules. However, he did not provide specifics on the current fuel situation at Cuban airports or potential future impacts, merely noting that connections from Mexico remain active.
Sheinbaum's announcement underscores the international scope of Cuba's crisis. Yet, the underlying issue remains the accumulated deterioration of the island's energy and logistical systems, a result of years of underinvestment, inadequate maintenance, and administrative decisions that have left the population vulnerable to frequent blackouts and increasingly unreliable essential services.
While Mexico dispatches ships, offers fuel, and considers an airlift, Cuba's internal situation continues to reveal a systemic fragility that emergency measures alone cannot resolve, rooted deeply in the country's economic and energy management.
FAQ on Mexico's Support to Cuba Amid Energy Crisis
What is the nature of the airlift proposed by Mexico to Cuba?
Mexico is prepared to establish an airlift to assist Cuba during its energy crisis, contingent upon an official request from the Cuban government.
How is Mexico supporting Cuba during its energy crisis?
Mexico is providing humanitarian aid, including food and medicine, and supplying jet fuel to Cuban aircraft. Additionally, diplomatic efforts are underway to resume oil shipments to Cuba.
What are the main challenges faced by Cuba in its energy crisis?
Cuba is grappling with fuel shortages, prolonged blackouts, and disruptions in airport fuel supplies, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and the island's systemic energy and logistical issues.