Feb 17 β€’ 02:12 UTC πŸ‡²πŸ‡½ Mexico El Financiero (ES)

Is oil coming to Cuba? Greek ship, flying the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, docks in Matanzas

A Greek ship, the Nicos I.V., has docked in Cuba's Matanzas harbor, potentially delivering oil despite the ongoing U.S. energy blockade.

Cuba has received what could be oil supplies as the Greek vessel Nicos I.V. entered the Matanzas Bay and docked near the city's energy logistics port, marking a significant event amid the U.S. energy blockade against the island. This arrival is particularly notable since it would be the first tanker to dock in Cuba since the Ocean Mariner on January 9, which transported approximately 85,000 barrels from Mexico. The potential cargo details, including the type and amount of fuel, remain undisclosed, raising questions about the logistics and implications of this delivery.

Tracking platforms had not registered the Nicos I.V. in Cuban ports for several weeks, suggesting it might have been operating in Cuban waters without revealing its location. The vessel, although not sanctioned by the United States, is a critical addition to Cuba's effort to secure fuel amidst severe energy constraints exacerbated by the blockade. The move raises expectations about the potential easing of some energy restrictions and what it might mean for Cuba's economy and daily life as it seeks alternative energy solutions.

This incident highlights not only Cuba's ongoing challenges in acquiring oil but also the complexities of international shipping and sanctions, as other countries, such as Mexico, become vital partners in addressing Cuba's energy needs. With the geopolitical landscape continually evolving, the arrival of the Nicos I.V. signals a possible shift in how Cuba sources its fuel, potentially indicating greater resilience against the U.S. embargo in the long term.

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