Russian Oil Tanker Arrives in Cuba Amid Severe Energy Crisis

Havana. A Russian-flagged oil tanker has arrived in Cuba, which is currently facing a severe energy shortage. Carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of oil, the Antonli Kolodkin is the first oil tanker to reach Cuba in three months. 

Despite the energy blockade imposed by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, the tanker was granted permission to continue its journey on humanitarian grounds. This Aframax-class vessel entered the Bay of Matanzas on Tuesday morning. 

This is Cuba's primary fuel storage facility. The tanker, which is under U.S. sanctions, entered Cuban waters on Sunday night near Guantanamo Bay. The U.S. stated that it permitted the vessel to supply fuel for humanitarian needs. 

Most parts of Cuba were in darkness when the tanker arrived at the port. According to President Miguel Diaz-Canel, the absence of any oil tankers for three months has deepened the country's energy crisis, impacting hospitals, public transportation, and the agricultural sector. 

Officials, including Minister of Energy and Mines Vicente de la O Levy, have welcomed the tanker's arrival. He expressed gratitude to Russia via social media, stating that this supply is crucial amidst the complex energy situation.