Trump says he has 'no problem' with Russian oil tanker bringing relief to Cuba
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- President Donald Trump stated he has "no problem" with a Russian oil tanker delivering relief oil to Cuba despite the ongoing U.S. oil blockade aimed at pressuring the Cuban regime.
- The Russian tanker Anatoly Kolodkin, carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of oil, was near Cuba's eastern tip and expected to arrive in Matanzas by Tuesday; the vessel is sanctioned by the U.S., EU, and UK due to the Ukraine conflict.
- The U.S. blockade has caused severe shortages in Cuba, including island-wide blackouts and critical deficits in gasoline and medical resources, worsening conditions for Cuban civilians.
- Trump dismissed concerns that allowing the tanker to dock would aid Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that Cuba's regime is corrupt and weakened regardless of this shipment.
- The anticipated oil delivery could provide around 180,000 barrels of diesel, enough to meet Cuba’s daily demand for about nine to ten days, potentially alleviating some immediate energy shortages.
