Russia Readies Oil for Cuba as Mexico Delivers Aid and Havana Refinery Fire Is Contained

Overview

• Russia is preparing to send crude and refined fuel to Cuba as humanitarian assistance, according to Izvestia citing the Russian embassy, with the Kremlin confirming active contacts with Havana.
• Two Mexican Navy ships delivered 814 tonnes of food and hygiene supplies to Havana, and Mexico signaled more relief could follow.
• Cuba has imposed strict fuel rationing and prioritized essential services, warned airlines of jet‑fuel shortages, and is enduring rolling blackouts that independent satellite analysis shows have dimmed light levels by up to 50% in eastern cities.
• A fire at Havana’s Ñico López refinery was brought under control, authorities said, with the cause under investigation after flames rose near two anchored tankers.
• The UN human‑rights office voiced deep concern over the worsening socio‑economic situation in Cuba and urged the removal of unilateral sectoral measures that restrict fuel deliveries.