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The United States could send small amounts of fuel to Cuba amid the deep energy crisis the island is experiencing, marked by prolonged blackouts, halted transportation, and a reduction in economic activities.
According to the British magazine The Economist, citing various sources, Washington is considering the limited shipment of cooking gas and diesel aimed at keeping basic infrastructure operational, particularly the water supply system.
The publication notes that it would involve reduced volumes focused on essential services.
The information comes after the administration of President Donald Trump imposed, on January 29, an effective embargo on foreign oil shipments to Cuba, warning that it will impose tariffs on any country that exports fuel to the island.
The measure came after the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the suspension of crude oil supplies from Venezuela, which worsened the already fragile energy situation in Cuba.
In recent weeks, the regime has declared a state of emergency, implemented a reduced workweek, shortened school hours, and faced flight suspensions due to a lack of fuel for airplanes.
The scarcity has also impacted tourism, one of the country's main sources of income, as public discontent grows over power outages lasting more than 15 hours a day in some areas.
If it materializes, the eventual U.S. shipment would not imply a lifting of restrictions or a regular supply of oil, but rather a temporary assistance to prevent a greater humanitarian collapse.
The Economist underscores that the measure, if realized, would occur alongside the ongoing political and economic pressure on the Cuban regime.
The possibility opens up a new scenario in the bilateral relationship, in which Washington would combine energy sanctions with a potential limited relief aimed at sustaining basic services, amid the worst economic crisis Cuba has faced in decades.
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