US Allow Russian Oil Tanker To Arrive in Cuba, Providing Relief

The United States has allowed a Russian oil tanker to arrive in Cuba amid a devastating embargo that has crippled the Caribbean island.

Earlier this year, the US intensified existing sanctions on Cuba, blocking all oil tankers from arriving. The ramp-up in pressure was meant to cut off Cuba's current authoritarian regime from oil supply, forcing them to give up their position.

The Trump administration was largely able to do this due to their capture of Maduro in January, effectively giving the US control over Venezuelan oil. Venezuela was one of Cuba's largest oil suppliers during the time of US sanctions prior to this year, but that quickly changed after Maduro's capture.

Unfortunately, cutting off oil to the island has had major ramifications. Around 95% of Cuba's energy is from fossil fuels, meaning that most of the island has been without power for weeks as power plants fail to operate due to oil shortages. Citizens are also unable to take hot showers or cook using the stove due to the lack of natural gas.

Now, Trump has confirmed that the US will allow a Russian oil tanker by the name of Anatoly Kolodkin into Cuba, bringing approximately 730,000 barrels of oil to sustain the island. Experts estimate that the oil could support Cuba's demands for up to 10 days, depending on how much energy is used.

Trump confirmed that he "had no problem" with letting it in despite the fact that the ship was Russian, stating that "the people need heat and cooling and all of the other things." He also acknowledged that it is a time for crisis for people in Cuba and they would need the oil to keep surviving as the US keeps up heavy sanctions.

While this shipment of oil will serve as a lifeline for Cuba as they struggle through this crisis, they will need more oil to be able to support their population for a longer period of time. It is unclear who will win in the standoff between the Trump administration and the current Cuban regime, but the people will serve as collateral damage to that silent battle until one side gives up their position.

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Image credit to AFP