In March 2026, the United States government allowed a Russian oil tanker to reach Cuba, ending part of a tight oil blockade that had worsened the island’s energy crisis. The ship, Anatoly Kolodkin, carried a large load of crude oil that Cuba badly needed.
Why This Matters
Cuba has been facing severe fuel shortages for months. The shortage caused blackouts, strict petrol rationing and problems in hospitals, transport, and everyday life. For the first time in about three months, oil was able to reach Cuba, providing temporary relief.
What the US Said
Although the US had blocked most oil supplies to Cuba to pressure its government, President Donald Trump said he would allow the Russian tanker to come in. Trump said he had “no problem” with the tanker arriving because the people of Cuba needed fuel to survive. However, the US government said this did not mean a permanent change in its sanction policy. Future oil deliveries would be reviewed one by one.
Where the Tanker Came From
The oil tanker Anatoly Kolodkin left the Russian port of Primorsk carrying roughly 700,000–730,000 barrels of crude oil. It sailed across the Atlantic and was expected to dock at Matanzas port in Cuba.
Cuba’s Energy Problems
Cuba used to get most of its oil from Venezuela under favourable terms. But in January 2026, the US removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, and Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba stopped. This made the fuel crisis much worse, leading to long blackouts and hardship for people across the island.
Help From Russia
Russia called the shipment a form of humanitarian support for Cuba. Kremlin officials said they discussed the delivery with the US before the tanker set sail. Some Cubans welcomed the oil, but many still said it was not enough to solve the crisis by itself.
