A vehicle fills up with fuel at a gas station in Havana on January 28, 2026.
Yamil Lage | Afp | Getty Images
The Kremlin has recently stated that it is engaged in discussions regarding potential assistance for Cuba, which is facing a severe fuel shortage. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump‘s threat of tariffs targeting countries that supply oil to the island.
“We don’t wish for any escalation, but our trade is quite limited at the moment,” Peskov shared with reporters, according to RIA Novosti.
This remark was made in response to inquiries concerning the Kremlin’s stance on the Trump administration’s tariff warnings.
The White House has announced plans to impose tariffs on nations supplying oil to Cuba, citing the communist government as an “unusual and extraordinary threat.”
This initiative follows a heightened pressure campaign from the U.S. against Cuba’s leadership beginning January 3, when a notable military operation was executed to depose Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, a longstanding ally of Cuba.
Peskov stated that Moscow intends to pursue “constructive dialogue” with the U.S. concerning Cuba’s escalating energy challenges.
“It is evident that discussing these matters in a public forum is unfeasible for various reasons,” Peskov commented.
The Cuban government, which has been under a U.S. trade embargo for over six decades, is currently grappling with a deepening economic crisis.
In response, Cuba recently introduced emergency measures aimed at safeguarding essential services and managing fuel rations for critical sectors.
These measures reportedly include limitations on fuel sales, the shuttering of certain tourist facilities, shortened school days, and a transition to a four-day work week for state-operated companies.
Cuba’s leadership recently alerted that international airlines would no longer be able to refuel within the country given the ongoing aviation fuel shortage.
Air Canada has since canceled all flights to the island, although the airline indicated that it would repatriate approximately 3,000 customers currently in Cuba over the following days.
Key Takeaways
- The Kremlin is exploring ways to assist Cuba amid its ongoing fuel crisis.
- President Trump’s administration is imposing tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba.
- Cuba, under a U.S. trade embargo, is facing a significant economic downturn.
- Emergency measures in Cuba include fuel rationing and the closure of tourist establishments.
- Air Canada has suspended all flights to Cuba due to the aviation fuel shortage.
FAQ
What measures is Cuba taking to manage its fuel supply?
The Cuban government has introduced emergency measures, including fuel rationing and the closure of certain tourist facilities.
How has the U.S. responded to Cuba’s fuel crisis?
The U.S. is implementing tariffs on countries that send oil to Cuba, categorizing its government as an unusual threat.
What are the implications for international airlines operating in Cuba?
Aviation fuel shortages have led to the cancellation of flights, with Air Canada halting all services to the island.
Is there ongoing dialogue between the U.S. and Russia regarding Cuba?
Yes, Moscow has indicated a desire to engage in constructive discussions with the U.S. about Cuba’s escalating energy crisis.
Why has the Cuban government implemented a four-day work week?
This initiative is part of a strategy to address the country’s economic challenges and manage fuel supplies effectively.
In summary, Cuba is navigating a challenging period marked by fuel shortages and economic strain, while both international and domestic discussions continue in search of solutions. With ongoing external pressures, the situation remains fluid and warrants close attention.
