U.S. to Allow Russian Oil Tanker to Reach Cuba, Breaking Blockade
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- The U.S. Coast Guard is permitting a Russian tanker carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of crude oil to enter Cuban waters, ending months of an effective oil blockade enforced by the Trump administration.
- The tanker, owned by the Russian government, was near Cuban territorial waters and expected to reach Matanzas, Cuba, by Tuesday, providing critical fuel supplies to the island.
- This delivery could temporarily alleviate Cuba's worsening fuel shortage and economic crisis, demonstrating continued support from Russia amid increasing pressure from the U.S.
- Despite having Coast Guard cutters in the area capable of intercepting the tanker, the Trump administration did not order any action to prevent its arrival.
