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The Chinese government announced this Tuesday its willingness to support Cuba in light of the severe fuel shortages the island is facing, a situation that has begun to affect even air connectivity.
The statement, reported by the agency Reuters and by Chinese official media such as Global Times, comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension and increasing energy isolation for Havana.
"China firmly supports Cuba in defending its sovereignty and national security, and opposes foreign interference", stated the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jian, during a routine press conference held on February 10.
The spokesperson added that their country "will always provide support and assistance to the Cuban side to the extent of our capabilities."
Nevertheless, the Chinese government did not define how the aid will be provided.
In his remarks on Tuesday, Chinese spokesperson Lin Jian also referred to these acts of pressure, stating that his country "firmly rejects actions and inhumane practices that deprive the Cuban people of their right to survival and development."
The message was clear: Beijing not only supports Havana as a strategic partner, but also openly challenges U.S. policies that exacerbate the shortage situation on the island.
In addition to this explicit political backing, Lin Jian emphasized that no reports have been received of Chinese citizens stranded in Cuba, referring to the recent cancellation of flights to the island due to a lack of fuel for airplanes, a tangible indication of the logistical deterioration the country is experiencing.
A geopolitical solidarity: China, Russia, and Mexico in defense of Cuba
In parallel to the Chinese statements, the Kremlin confirmed this Monday that it is in contact with Havana to help counter the energy restrictions imposed by the United States.
According to Moscow, Washington is resorting to "suffocating techniques" that directly affect the Cuban people.
For her part, the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, harshly criticized the U.S. pressure and emphasized that her government will continue to explore "diplomatic avenues" to allow the shipment of oil to the island.
Last month, Mexico sent two naval ships with humanitarian aid to Cuba, transporting over 800 tons of food and basic goods.
A gesture of support with limits
Although China has reaffirmed its commitment to "support and assist" Cuba, its statements were not accompanied by specific announcements regarding fuel shipments or immediate logistical assistance.
The phrase "to the extent of our capabilities" suggests a conditional backing, likely calculated to avoid escalating tensions with the United States on other trade and geopolitical fronts.
Nevertheless, the symbolic message from China is significant.
In the midst of an energy crisis with visible effects—ranging from blackouts in public services to impacts on tourism and air mobility—Cuba is clinging to its traditional partners to navigate an increasingly restrictive scenario.
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