US President Donald Trump has signalled a shift in policy on Cuba, saying he has “no problem” with countries sending oil to the island as a sanctioned Russian tanker approaches its shores.
The move marks a reversal from Washington’s earlier stance, which effectively cut off crude supplies and intensified an energy crisis that has crippled the Cuban economy.
A Russian vessel, part of Moscow’s so-called “shadow fleet”, was positioned off Cuba’s eastern coast on Sunday and expected to dock with a major shipment of crude, offering relief after months without deliveries.
Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, said humanitarian considerations outweighed concerns about aiding the Cuban government.
“If a country wants to send some oil into Cuba right now, I have no problem with that, whether it’s Russia or not,” he said.
He added: “Cuba is finished. They have a bad regime. They have very bad and corrupt leadership, and whether or not they get a boat of oil, it’s not going to matter.”
“I’d prefer letting it in, whether it’s Russia or anybody else, because the people need heat and cooling and all of the other things that you need.”
The easing of restrictions comes after the US halted oil flows from Venezuela following the removal of President Nicolas Maduro, while other suppliers, including Mexico, also stopped shipments under pressure.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has warned the country has gone three months without receiving oil tankers, worsening fuel shortages, blackouts and healthcare challenges.
The incoming shipment, carried aboard the Anatoly Kolodkin from Russia’s Primorsk port, is estimated at up to 730,000 barrels, potentially covering several weeks of demand under strict rationing.
The development comes as global energy markets remain volatile due to the wider Middle East conflict, with Russia playing a growing role in supplying allies and navigating sanctions.
Despite the temporary softening, Trump maintained a hardline tone on Havana, suggesting he would focus more attention on Cuba after addressing tensions involving Iran.
Analysts say the decision to allow the tanker through may also reflect concerns over escalating tensions with Russia if the shipment were forcibly blocked.
With Cuba’s energy crisis deepening, the arrival of the Russian oil cargo could provide short-term relief, even as geopolitical rivalries continue to shape supply routes and policy decisions.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
