Russia Dismisses Trump
Tensions between Washington and Moscow are rising again — this time over Cuba.
The Kremlin confirmed Thursday that it is quietly evaluating ways to support Havana as President Donald Trump continues enforcing tough measures aimed at cutting off foreign oil shipments to the island.
The move comes amid a worsening fuel crisis inside Cuba and growing international debate over America’s strategy.
Trump’s Energy Pressure Strategy
President Trump has made it clear: countries that supply oil to Cuba could face serious trade consequences.
The policy is part of a broader effort to limit the financial and energy lifelines that have sustained Cuba’s communist government for decades. After decisive action earlier this year reshaped Venezuela’s leadership structure — long Cuba’s primary oil benefactor — the administration signaled it would not allow substitute suppliers to step in easily.
For supporters of the policy, this is about leverage.
For critics, it raises concerns about humanitarian strain.
Either way, the pressure is real.
Kremlin Signals Quiet Coordination
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed discussions are underway but declined to reveal specifics, saying such matters cannot be handled publicly.
He also suggested that Russia may be less vulnerable to tariff threats than other nations, noting that economic ties between the United States and Russia are already minimal following years of sanctions.
In short: Moscow has little direct trade exposure to lose.
Russia’s ambassador to Cuba added that Moscow “will not abandon Cuba,” emphasizing longstanding political ties between the two nations.
Cuba’s Growing Energy Crisis
Meanwhile, conditions on the island are deteriorating.
Cuba is facing:
- Severe fuel shortages
- Rolling blackouts across major cities
- Rising food prices
- Transportation disruptions
The energy shortfall has forced flight schedule changes and created strain across daily life for ordinary citizens.
International observers have warned that continued shortages could worsen humanitarian conditions if relief does not stabilize supply chains.
U.S. Humanitarian Aid Continues
Despite the firm stance on oil shipments, the U.S. State Department has allocated $6 million in humanitarian assistance directed through Christian relief organizations. Officials say the goal is to support the Cuban people directly — while avoiding any benefit to government leadership.
The administration has also warned that any interference with aid delivery would carry consequences.
This dual-track strategy — economic pressure combined with targeted humanitarian assistance — reflects a broader approach aimed at separating citizens from regime structures.
International Pushback Emerges
Some foreign leaders have criticized the U.S. approach, arguing that sanctions contribute to hardship on the island.
Mexico recently sent humanitarian shipments to Havana, and Chile has pledged financial assistance through multilateral organizations.
These moves highlight a widening diplomatic divide over how best to address Cuba’s situation.
What Happens Next?
The bigger question now is whether Russia will directly step in with fuel shipments — and if so, whether the United States will respond with additional trade measures.
For the Trump administration, supporters argue the strategy is about long-term regional stability and accountability in the Western Hemisphere.
For others, it’s a humanitarian balancing act.
What’s clear is this: Cuba has once again become a focal point in global power politics — and energy is the leverage point.






