A vessel from Colombia arrived in Havana this Friday, bringing with it 100 tons of essential supplies and food. This international humanitarian aid comes at a critical time as the island faces a severe energy crisis.
The ship, which embarked from Cartagena de Indias earlier this month, reached Havana's bay at dawn, proudly displaying the Colombian flag and accompanied by a small Cuban escort vessel, as reported by the Associated Press.
The Colombian Presidential Agency for International Cooperation stated that this shipment was made under the directive of President Gustavo Petro. It included non-perishable foods, medications, medical supplies, electrical materials, and solar panels, among other items.
In addition to the government-provided goods, seven extra tons of supplies were gathered by solidarity groups and Cubans residing in Colombia.
This initiative was sparked by a formal request from the Cuban Embassy in Colombia to the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, involving several Colombian state entities.
This shipment follows another delivery Cuba received the previous weekend from the vessel Asian Katra, carrying 1,700 tons of essential goods like rice, beans, and milk from Mexico and Belize.
Other countries, including China, Russia, Uruguay, and some European nations, have also sent aid to the island throughout 2026.
Colombia has a history of supporting Cuba in times of need. In November 2025, it sent 240 tons of humanitarian aid to the port of Guillermón Moncada in Santiago de Cuba following Hurricane Melissa, and in December 2024, it dispatched ten tons via an Air Force aircraft.
For the past five years, Cuba has been grappling with an intense economic crisis, exacerbated earlier this year when U.S. President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on nations supplying oil to the island. Over the last five months, only one vessel carrying Russian oil has reached Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aid to Cuba
What kind of humanitarian aid did Colombia send to Cuba?
Colombia sent 100 tons of humanitarian aid, including non-perishable foods, medications, medical supplies, electrical materials, and solar panels.
Why is Cuba experiencing an economic crisis?
Cuba's economic crisis has been ongoing for five years, worsened by threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on countries sending oil to Cuba.
Which other countries have sent aid to Cuba in 2026?
In 2026, China, Russia, Uruguay, and several European nations have provided aid to Cuba.