Russian Energy Minister, Sergey Tsivilyov has disclosed that Russia plans to send a second oil tanker to Cuba as part of efforts to support the island nation’s energy supply.
The announcement comes just two days after the sanctioned Russian tanker Anatoly Kolodkin tanker arrived at the Cuban port of Port of Matanzas carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of crude oil.
The shipment marked the first time in three months that an oil tanker had reached the Caribbean island, which has been grappling with fuel shortages and energy supply constraints.
Tsivilyov made the remarks while speaking on the sidelines of an energy forum in Kazan, Russia, where he highlighted Moscow’s intention to continue assisting Cuba despite international sanctions and logistical challenges surrounding oil shipments to the country. According to the Minister, preparations are already underway for another tanker to deliver oil to the island.
“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.”
Sergey Tsivilyov
The latest shipment represents a significant delivery for Cuba, which has experienced periodic disruptions to fuel supplies in recent years. Such shortages have affected electricity generation, transportation, and industrial operations across the island.
Cuba has been suffering from an energy crisis since January, when US forces abducted Venezuelan President and Cuban ally Nicolas Maduro. His removal deprived Cuba of one of its main oil suppliers.
Energy imports are critical for Cuba’s power sector, as the country relies heavily on imported fuel to operate its thermal power plants. Interruptions in shipments have contributed to power outages and broader economic strain.
The tanker that arrived this week carried one of the largest oil shipments to the island in recent months. Officials say the cargo provides temporary relief to Cuba’s fuel supply while additional deliveries are arranged.
Russia has remained one of Cuba’s key partners in energy cooperation. The two countries have maintained close diplomatic and economic ties for decades, and Moscow has continued to provide support to the island in sectors including oil supplies, infrastructure, and trade.
Tsivilyov’s comments underscore Russia’s willingness to continue supplying fuel to Cuba despite the complex environment surrounding global energy trade and sanctions affecting some Russian vessels and companies.
The Minister’s reference to a “blockade” reflects Russia’s criticism of long-standing U.S. sanctions against Cuba. Havana has frequently argued that the restrictions make it more difficult for the country to obtain essential goods, including fuel.
The United States has maintained a wide range of economic sanctions on Cuba for decades, limiting financial transactions and trade with the island. Cuban authorities have often blamed these measures for many of the country’s economic challenges, including constraints on energy imports.
While the arrival of the Russian tanker at Matanzas provided a temporary boost to Cuba’s fuel reserves, the announcement of a second shipment suggests Moscow intends to maintain its role as a supplier of oil to the island.
Energy analysts note that securing stable fuel shipments remains a key priority for Cuba’s government as it works to stabilize electricity production and reduce the frequency of power outages.
For Russia, the shipments also highlight its continued engagement with partners in the Caribbean and Latin America, particularly in the energy sector.
Deliveries of crude oil and refined petroleum products have been among the most visible forms of cooperation between Moscow and Havana in recent years.
Tanker’s Departure From Russia, Arrival In Cuba Unspecified
Tsivilyov did not specify when the second tanker would depart or arrive in Cuba, but confirmed that the vessel is currently being prepared for loading.
His comments signal that Russia intends to sustain its support for Cuba’s energy needs in the near term, even as broader geopolitical tensions and sanctions continue to shape global energy flows.
For Cuba, the planned shipment could help ease immediate fuel pressures while authorities continue seeking additional sources of energy supplies to stabilize the country’s power grid and economy.
Cuba produces barely 40% of its required fuel and relies on imports to sustain its energy grid. Experts say the anticipated shipment could produce about 180,000 barrels of diesel, enough to feed Cuba’s daily demand for nine or 10 days.
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