Russia Confirms Oil Supply to Cuba Will Continue Despite U.S. Sanctions

World

Russia will continue to supply oil to Cuba, according to Russia’s ambassador to the country, Viktor Coronelli, as cited by RIA. The U.S., led by President Donald Trump, has taken steps to block all oil from reaching Cuba, including that from ally Venezuela.

U.S. officials announced on Sunday they had begun talks with “the highest people in Cuba,” following Trump’s declaration of Cuba as an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to national security and his threats of tariffs on U.S.-bound exports from any nation sending oil to the communist-run island.

These actions have led to severe fuel shortages, hours-long blackouts, and increased food prices in Havana. The U.S. push has driven up prices for essential goods and services, exacerbating an already dire situation where blackouts are common, and transportation becomes increasingly unreliable.