Russia has warned that Cuba’s worsening fuel shortage has reached a critical stage, accusing the United States of imposing “suffocating measures” aimed at crippling the island’s economy and political will.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday that Moscow is discussing “possible solutions” to support Havana and stands ready to provide assistance. His remarks come as Cuba reels from severe energy shortages after Washington cut off oil flows from Venezuela and threatened tariffs against countries supplying fuel to the island.
“The situation is really critical in Cuba,” Peskov told reporters, blaming US sanctions for deepening the crisis.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov echoed that stance, expressing solidarity with Cuba and Venezuela and insisting both nations have the right to determine their own futures without external pressure.
Cuba’s fuel shortage has forced emergency measures across the country. Authorities have introduced a four-day work week for state firms, limited fuel sales, shut universities, shortened school hours and warned airlines that jet fuel supplies are running out. Air Canada announced Monday it would suspend flights to Cuba due to the lack of aviation fuel.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez condemned what he called Washington’s “cruel aggression,” saying the goal was to “break the political will of the Cuban people.” President Miguel Díaz-Canel said Havana remains open to dialogue with the United States, but not under coercion.
The crisis has drawn international concern. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned of a potential humanitarian collapse if Cuba’s energy needs are not met. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum also criticized US sanctions, vowing to continue diplomatic efforts to restore oil shipments despite the risk of American tariffs.
Washington, meanwhile, has defended its hard line. President Donald Trump has labeled Cuba an “extraordinary threat” to US national security and warned of further penalties against countries supplying the island with fuel, signaling that pressure on Havana is set to intensify.
