The Russian government is discussing ways to support Cuba in overcoming its worsening fuel crisis, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told journalists following a government report in the State Duma.
“There are such proposals [to support Cuba regarding the fuel crisis]; they are currently being discussed within the government,” Novak said, adding that the issue is being handled by the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation between Russia and Cuba.
The announcement comes as Cuba continues to grapple with severe energy shortages that have disrupted fuel supplies across the island. The crisis has intensified after a significant drop in external oil shipments from traditional partners, leading authorities to warn airlines that aviation fuel supplies could be suspended for up to a month, forcing aircraft to stop elsewhere to refuel.
In response to the crisis, Havana has introduced a series of emergency measures, including implementing a four‑day workweek for state enterprises and imposing restrictions on fuel sales to manage scarce resources. Cost‑cutting actions have involved the cancellation of some interprovincial bus and train routes and the temporary closure of certain tourist facilities.
The potential Russian support comes amid broader international concern over Cuba’s energy situation, which has been marked by shortages in jet fuel and disruptions to public services, transportation networks, and power generation. Regional countries including Canada and Mexico have also pledged various forms of humanitarian and food aid to assist Cuba during the crisis as global pressure grows.
