On February 4, 2026, Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilyov announced plans for a second oil tanker to be dispatched to Cuba. This decision underscores Russia’s commitment to support the island amidst its ongoing energy blockade.
The announcement follows the arrival of the sanctioned Russian tanker Anatoly Kolodkin, which docked at the Cuban port of Matanzas just two days prior. This vessel carried an impressive 730,000 barrels of oil, marking a significant milestone as it was the first tanker to reach Cuba in three months. Experts estimate that this shipment could yield approximately 180,000 barrels of diesel fuel, sufficient to satisfy Cuba’s daily energy needs for the next nine to ten days.
Support amidst sanctions
Tsivilyov made his comments at an energy forum in Kazan, where he expressed solidarity with Cuba during this challenging period. He stated,
“Cuba is in a total blockade, it’s been cut off. Whose shipment of oil made it? A Russian vessel broke through the blockade. A second one is being loaded right now, we will not leave Cubans alone in trouble.”
This declaration reflects Russia’s determination to assist Cuba despite the geopolitical tensions surrounding the island.
The situation has been further complicated by external pressures. Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump threatened tariffs against any nation supplying oil to Cuba. However, he later indicated that he had “no problem” with the Anatoly Kolodkin’s arrival, commenting that it would not significantly bolster the Cuban government. “Cuba’s finished,” Trump remarked, criticizing the island’s leadership and indicating that oil shipments would not change the prevailing circumstances.
Energy crisis deepens
Cuba currently produces only about 40% of the fuel it requires, relying heavily on imports to maintain its struggling energy infrastructure. The situation deteriorated when critical oil shipments from Venezuela were disrupted due to US intervention in the South American nation and the subsequent arrest of its leader, Nicolás Maduro. In addition, Mexico has ceased its oil deliveries to Cuba following Trump’s warning regarding potential tariffs.
The intensifying US energy blockade has exacerbated Cuba’s economic struggles, resulting in widespread blackouts, reductions to the state-run food rationing system, and shortages of water and medical supplies. The most vulnerable populations on the island have been hit hardest by these crises, underscoring the urgent need for foreign assistance.