Cuba Relies on Russia's Commitment for Sustainable Oil Supply

Kuba’s energy situation has become a global focus amid escalating tensions between Moscow and Washington. The Caribbean nation continues to rely on oil supplies from Russia to meet its economic needs, despite facing aggressive tariff threats from the U.S. government.

Russian Ambassador to Cuba, Viktor Koronelli, recently reaffirmed that Moscow will not back down from its commitments. According to a Russian media report cited by RTHK, Koronelli indicated that bilateral energy relations have been consistently maintained over the years and will continue into the future. This statement emphasizes that Cuba’s dependence on energy sources from Eastern Europe is not merely a commercial transaction but a long-term strategic partnership.

New Tariff Threats from Washington Policy

U.S. President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order declaring a national energy emergency. This controversial policy includes threats to impose tariffs on any country that, directly or indirectly, supplies energy to Cuba. This decision represents an escalation of the U.S. economic embargo strategy that has been in place against the island for decades.

Russia’s Firm Response and Solidarity Alliance

In response, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov engaged in direct communication with his Cuban counterpart, Bruno Rodríguez. During this diplomatic dialogue, Lavrov explicitly stated that any form of economic and military pressure on Cuba—including efforts to restrict its energy access—is completely unacceptable to Russia. This statement reveals Moscow’s clear position in supporting Cuba amid global geopolitical tensions.

Russia’s commitment to Cuba reflects the complex dynamics of international relations and efforts to maintain a balance of power in the region.