President Trump stated on Sunday night that he has no problem with a Russian oil tanker delivering relief to Cuba, which is struggling due to a U.S. oil blockade.
Asked about a New York Times report suggesting the tanker would reach Cuba, Trump said, “I told them if a country wants to send some oil into Cuba right now, I have no problem whether it’s Russia or not.”
The oil tanker, carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of oil and sanctioned by the U.S., EU, and UK due to the war in Ukraine, was off Cuba’s eastern tip on Sunday night and expected to arrive in Matanzas by Tuesday.
Trump, whose administration has been more aggressive towards Cuba than any recent U.S. government, has cut Cuba off from key oil shipments to force regime change. The blockade has devastated civilians, causing blackouts, lack of gasoline, and crippled hospitals and public transport.
Experts say the anticipated shipment could provide about 180,000 barrels of diesel enough for nine or ten days’ supply.
Trump dismissed the idea that allowing the boat to reach Cuba would help Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying it doesn’t help him much. He added: “Cuba’s a mess. It’s a failing country and they’re going to be next.”
The U.S. blockade has prompted civilians from outside Cuba to deliver aid in dangerous missions. Two sailboats carrying aid as part of the Nuestra América Convoy landed in Havana on Saturday after going missing following their March 20 departure. The Mexican navy found them about 80 nautical miles northwest of Havana and escorted them to safety.