Chicago – March 30, 2026
The Trump administration allowed a sanctioned Russian oil tanker carrying about 730,000 barrels of crude to reach Cuba, easing pressure on the island’s strained energy system, according to AP, Reuters and the New York Times. President Donald Trump said he had “no problem” with the shipment, while U.S. officials had previously tightened restrictions that sharply reduced Cuba’s fuel access.
The development comes as Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum continues to defend Mexico’s oil shipments to Cuba as a sovereign and humanitarian decision. Reuters reported that Sheinbaum said Mexico has not increased deliveries beyond historical levels, and that any shipments are made through contracts or humanitarian channels.
Cuba has faced worsening power outages and fuel shortages amid U.S. pressure on Venezuela and broader sanctions. Mexico’s state oil company Pemex has remained an important supplier, though reports indicate shipments have been paused at times as Mexico weighs possible retaliation from Washington.
