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The Government of Mexico is evaluating options to send fuel to Cuba and help meet basic needs for electricity and transportation, without exposing itself to sanctions or tariffs from the United States, reported Reuters on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Four individuals familiar with the negotiations confirmed to Reuters that high-level Mexican officials are in talks with representatives from Washington to clarify the extent of the executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which threatens to impose tariffs on countries that supply oil to the island.
According to sources cited by the news agency, Mexico is seeking a diplomatic route that would allow it to continue sending fuel and is considering classifying those shipments as "humanitarian aid" to avoid violating U.S. sanctions.
The White House, the State Department, and the Presidency of Mexico did not immediately respond to requests for comment, while the Mexican Foreign Ministry assured Reuters that it had no information on the matter.
Cuba needs to import about two-thirds of its energy consumption and is facing prolonged blackouts and long lines at gas stations.
Shipments of Venezuelan oil were interrupted since December 2025, following the U.S. blockade on the country's tankers and the capture of the dictator Nicolás Maduro in January.
Since then, Mexico became the main fuel supplier for Cuba, although in mid-January, the government of Claudia Sheinbaum suspended shipments of crude oil and derivatives due to pressure from Washington.
The United States considers that Cuba represents an "extraordinary threat" to its national security, a claim that the Cuban regime rejects.
However, the threats of sanctions have forced Mexico to seek a negotiated solution that allows it to maintain its policy of support for the island.
One of the sources consulted by Reuters stated that “there are discussions almost every day” between both governments, and that Mexico “does not want to be sanctioned, but also does not want to abandon its policy of solidarity with the Cuban people.”
The media also recalled that the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, warned this week that Cuba is at risk of a "humanitarian collapse" if it does not receive enough fuel to sustain its energy system.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly defended the provision of aid and called for avoiding measures that would worsen the crisis.
"Imposing tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba could lead to a humanitarian crisis, affecting hospitals, food, and other essential services," said the leader last Friday.
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