Russian Oil Tanker Docks in Cuba Amid US Blockade; Trump Allows Delivery, Claims Island is “Finished”

Russian Oil Tanker Reportedly Arrives in Cuba

According to the Kremlin, a Russian oil tanker has docked in Cuba, a move that comes right in the middle of a US oil blockade against the island nation. Interestingly, while US President Trump has expressed agreement with the delivery, he still maintains that Cuba is “finished.”

The Arrival and the Blockade
Despite the de facto oil blockade imposed by the United States, the Kremlin states that a Russian oil tanker has arrived at the port of Matanzas in Cuba. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that Russia intends to continue its efforts to supply the Caribbean island with oil.

Prior to this, the New York Times had reported that the US appeared to be loosening its blockade, allowing a tanker from Russia to pass through to the Caribbean.

Russia’s Stance
Peskov stated that Russia views it as “its duty not to stand idly by and to provide necessary assistance to our Cuban friends.” He noted that this aid also concerns medical supplies. Accordingly, Russian representatives reportedly raised the issue during talks with the US. However, Peskov clarified that no military mobilization is planned.

Trump’s Reaction
Meanwhile, US President Trump told American media that he agrees with the arrival of the Russian oil tanker. “I prefer to let it in, because the people need heating and cooling and everything else,” he said.

Trump added that a single shipload of oil wouldn’t make a difference anyway. “Cuba is finished,” he stated.

Context
The government in Washington had effectively blocked oil deliveries to Cuba to increase pressure on the leadership in Havana. As a result, the island had not received any oil imports for three months, according to President Miguel Díaz-Canel.