Russia pledges energy support to Cuba as fuel crisis worsens

Peskov says Russia is ready to be a reliable energy supplier to European markets. (Photo/Reuters)

In a significant move to support a regional ally, Russia has pledged to supply Cuba with critical petroleum products, addressing a severe fuel crisis that has disrupted the island nation’s electricity generation and life-support systems. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Moscow considers it a responsibility to assist Cuba, particularly in the face of ongoing economic restrictions. The shipment, coordinated with prior diplomatic communication with the United States, was successfully delivered. Additionally, the Russian government addressed global concerns regarding military mobilization and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining stable energy exports to both Serbia and European markets.

Russia is supplying critical petroleum products to Cuba to sustain vital life-support and power systems.
Logistical transit of the oil shipment was facilitated following diplomatic dialogue with the United States.
The Kremlin has formally denied any plans for new waves of military mobilization.
Russia confirmed the extension of its gas contract with Serbia and reiterated its readiness to supply energy globally.

Russia believes it has a responsibility to assist Cuba in providing critical energy resources for the country's life support systems, as Moscow cannot simply stand by and watch its ally suffer due to fuel scarcity, the Kremlin has said.

"Under conditions of a severe blockade, our Cuban friends need petroleum products and oil. This is necessary for the operation of the country's life-support systems, for generating electricity, and for providing medical and other services to the population," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said at a press briefing in Moscow on Monday.

Asked why the US Coast Guard allowed the passage of the Russian tanker, the official said Moscow had discussed the possibility of humanitarian oil supplies to Cuba with Washington in advance.

"We are glad that this shipment of petroleum products has arrived on the island," he added.

Commenting on Finnish President Alexander Stubb's statement that Russia may announce a general mobilisation, Peskov said no new waves of military mobilisation are planned in Russia, adding, "Such a topic is not on the agenda."

Responding to a question about the possibility of selling energy resources to the EU, Peskov said Russia is ready to be a reliable supplier of energy resources to European markets as well.

The official confirmed that the Russian-Serbian gas contract, which expires on March 31, will continue.

Earlier on Monday, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced that the contract had been extended for three months.

"Russia has been and remains ready to continue being a reliable supplier of energy resources to any world markets, including the European one. We are particularly committed to our obligations regarding such friendly and brotherly countries as Serbia," Peskov said.

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Source: TRT