Russians Set Out to Save Cuba, Everyone Fears Trump’s Reaction to Defying US Embargo, Awaiting Final Outcome Cuba is experiencing a severe fuel shortage, the longest in at least 12 years, after US sanctions effectively halted energy imports. A Russian tanker carrying over 700,000 barrels of crude oil is heading to the island, a move that tests the US embargo. While this shipment could be a lifeline, refined products would offer more immediate relief for Cuba’s energy needs and ongoing blackouts affecting millions.

• Cuba faces its longest energy import crisis in 12 years due to US sanctions, leading to widespread blackouts.
• A Russian tanker carrying over 700,000 barrels of crude oil is en route to Cuba, challenging the US embargo.
• Mexico previously supplied Cuba but stopped shipments after US actions against Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
• Crude oil requires refining, which takes 20-30 days, meaning it won’t provide immediate relief.
• Cuba needs about 100,000 barrels of fuel daily but produces only two-fifths of that.
• The US embargo has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, with a complete nationwide blackout on March 16, 2026.
• President Trump has issued warnings to Cuba, stating he may ‘take over the island’.