- By Aditya Jha
- Fri, 27 Mar 2026 09:07 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Amid the heavy US pressure on Cuba, a Russian-flagged tanker is approaching the Caribbean island to provide assistance. Anatoly Kolodkin, the Russian tanker, is carrying an estimated 730,000 barrels of crude to Cuba and is expected to reach the island soon. Cuba has been dealing with a major energy crisis in the recent weeks following collapse of Venezuelan oil support and restrictions from the Trump administration. While the US has not released any statement on this matter, it is reportedly watching the developments and exploring its options.
Russia's Message To US
The experts pointed out that the Russian crude can solve the crisis for a few weeks, further pointing out that Moscow is testing the might of US. Cuba has witnessed several blackouts in the recent days due to the shortage of crude, especially after the US military raid on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The Caribbean island imported around 60 per cent of its energy needs from Venezuela; however, the supply has been disrupted.
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The Trump administration is increasing pressure on the Cuban government by limiting oil supplies, but fuel delivery from Russia can give a boost to its energy needs. "Cuba is in the midst of its worst fuel shortage in years. So this shipment of crude oil could buy Cuba a couple of weeks after refining," Basil Germond, a maritime security specialist at Lancaster University was quoted as saying by France 24.
'More Geopolitical Than Altruistic'
"Russia’s motives look more geopolitical than altruistic," he added. Earlier on March 17, US President Donald Trump reiterated that he would be "honoured" to take Cuba in "some form", adding that the nation is weakened. "I do believe I'll be having the honor of taking Cuba. I think that's a big honour. Taking Cuba in some form," Trump stated.
"Whether I free it, take it- think I could do anything I want with it, you want to know the truth. They're a very weakened nation right now," he added.