As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, Russia’s decision to repatriate its citizens from Cuba amid a severe fuel crisis highlights the complexities of international relations influenced by economic sanctions. These developments not only impact travel but also reveal the challenges facing countries like Cuba, caught in a web of external pressures and limited resources. The latest efforts to ensure the safe return of Russian tourists underscore a commitment to diplomatic ties and mutual support in times of crisis.
Russia is preparing to evacuate its citizens currently visiting Cuba, as stated by Moscow’s aviation authorities, following an oil blockade imposed by the United States that has severely restricted the island nation’s supplies of jet fuel. The federal aviation regulator, Rosaviatsia, announced that due to difficulties refueling aircraft in Cuba, Rossiya Airlines and Nordwind Airlines would adjust their flight schedules, limiting operations to return flights only.
These return flights will specifically transport Russian tourists from Havana and Varadero back to Moscow, ensuring the safe evacuation of approximately 5,000 Russian nationals currently on the island. The Ministry of Economic Development in Russia has urged citizens against travel to Cuba, which is facing its most serious fuel crisis in years—a direct consequence of U.S. restrictions on oil supplies from Venezuela, particularly following the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January.
In an effort to facilitate this evacuation, the Russian embassy in Havana is collaborating closely with Aeroflot and Cuban aviation authorities, aiming to ensure a seamless return for its citizens. According to various reports by the Russian news agency TASS, Aeroflot has initiated repatriation flights, and Moscow is also planning to send humanitarian aid, including oil and petroleum products, to support Cuba during this challenging period.
The Kremlin has vocally condemned the actions of Washington, accusing it of trying to “suffocate” Cuba economically. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that discussions are underway to explore potential solutions to aid Havana during this crisis. In 2025, visits from more than 130,000 Russians made them the third-largest tourist group in Cuba, following Canadians and expatriates; however, the fuel shortages have prompted both Russian and Canadian airlines to reduce flights.
Cuba, which has grappled with an economic downturn exacerbated by long-standing U.S. sanctions, has seen conditions worsen, particularly since heightened tensions following President Trump’s return to power. Notably, Trump has imposed additional threats against Cuba’s government and recently signed an executive order to enforce trade tariffs on nations supplying oil to the island.
As a result of the fuel shortage, Cuba can only produce about one-third of its total energy needs, leading to widespread power outages. This has resulted in the cancellation of public transportation services, closures of some hotels, and reduced operational hours in schools and universities, forcing public sector workers into a four-day workweek. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned of a potential humanitarian crisis in Cuba if the nation’s energy demands are not met.
#WorldNews #MiddleEastNews