The Russian government has acknowledged difficulties in supplying fuel to Cuba, which is facing an energy crisis due to a U.S. embargo, as discussions between Russian and Cuban officials continue.
On Wednesday, the Russian government recognized that the potential supply of fuel to Cuba is still under consideration, amid an ongoing severe energy crisis in the Caribbean nation due to the stringent U.S. embargo. Alexandr Novak, the Russian Deputy Prime Minister, stated that proposals for assistance are being evaluated by the government, highlighting the involvement of an intergovernmental commission focused on economic and commercial cooperation between Russia and Cuba.
Last week, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez engaged in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow regarding this urgent need. During this meeting, President Putin reiterated Russia's position against accepting similar conditions to those imposed by the U.S., illustrating Moscow's complex diplomatic stance. The Kremlin also confirmed that specific forms of support that Russia could provide to Havana were discussed in detail.
Moreover, both Lavrov and Rodríguez have urged for dialogue with the United States concerning the situation. The ongoing talks signify a significant moment in Russia-Cuba relations, especially given Cuba's dependency on external energy sources amidst its current economic hardships. This dynamic is crucial not only for Cuba's immediate energy needs but also for Russia's geopolitical interests in the region, amidst its own challenges in the energy sector.
