The White House confirms no change in Cuba policy, allowing a Russian tanker to deliver humanitarian fuel amid ongoing sanctions.
The White House stated it has not altered US policy toward Cuba, even as it permitted a sanctioned Russian tanker to deliver fuel to the island for humanitarian reasons, reports the Japan Times.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt informed reporters that the decision does not constitute a formal change in sanctions policy. She emphasized that the US still reserves the right to seize vessels headed to Cuba if they violate sanctions.
The US cut off Venezuela's oil exports to Cuba after removing President Nicolas Maduro in January. Former President Donald Trump also threatened tariffs on other countries supplying crude to Havana.
A State Department official noted that the US embassy in Havana received a fuel shipment last week, adding that Cuba had assured Washington it would honor its obligations under the Vienna Convention.
Trump has indicated flexibility, stating he had no issue with countries sending oil to Cuba, including Russia, due to the energy needs of the Cuban people.
Cuba has not received an oil tanker in three months, according to President Miguel Diaz-Canel. This shortage has led to rationing and blackouts across the island of 10 million people, with health officials warning of increased risks for cancer patients.
Russia reported that a tanker carrying 100,000 tonnes of crude has arrived in Cuba.
