Summary
A Russian oil tanker with around 730,000 barrels of crude oil has arrived in Cuba, breaking a near-total fuel blockade by the United States. President Trump stated he does not object to other countries sending oil to Cuba for humanitarian reasons. Despite the arrival of the oil, the U.S. says its blockade policy has not changed.
Key Facts
- A Russian tanker docked in Cuba with 730,000 barrels of crude oil.
- This is the first crude delivery to Cuba since early January.
- President Trump indicated a softer stance on the oil blockade, allowing this shipment for humanitarian reasons.
- Most hospitals in Cuba have struggled to operate because of the fuel shortage.
- The U.S. captured Venezuela's leader, Nicolás Maduro, earlier this year, which affected Cuba's oil supplies.
- The oil needs to be processed at an old refinery in Havana, which may take over a week.
- Drivers in Cuba face fuel restrictions and must use a special app to buy petrol.
- Experts say the new oil supply will only last a few weeks, and diesel is critically needed.
