Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Thursday that her administration is exploring new strategies to continue providing oil to Cuba amid the island's deepening energy crisis, underscoring Mexico's ongoing support of the Havana regime.
In her morning press briefing, Sheinbaum mentioned that various "frameworks are being examined" to sustain the aid, although she did not provide specific details about the options under consideration.
Reaffirming Mexico's autonomy, Sheinbaum stated that the country retains the right to forge trade agreements with any nation globally. "We are sovereign in establishing commercial agreements with any country around the world," she asserted.
She also justified the assistance to Cuba by highlighting the severe hardships faced by its citizens. "We are seeking ways to continue supporting the Cuban people," she emphasized.
These remarks come at a time when Cuba is experiencing widespread blackouts due to a shortage of fuel, exacerbating the already challenging economic and social conditions on the island.
The president further noted that there is support within Mexico for the humanitarian aid to Cuba, despite the political debates this issue stirs in various circles.
The potential oil delivery comes at a crucial juncture, characterized by Cuba's energy crisis and international pressure on fuel supplies to the island.
In January, the tanker Ocean Mariner arrived in Havana Bay, carrying approximately 86,000 barrels of fuel from Mexico, marking the last oil shipment from the Mexican nation to the Cuban regime.
Mexico's Oil Relationship with Cuba
Why is Mexico considering sending oil to Cuba?
Mexico is evaluating oil deliveries to Cuba in response to the island's escalating energy crisis and power outages, emphasizing humanitarian support for the Cuban people.
What challenges does Cuba face without adequate fuel supplies?
Cuba is grappling with widespread blackouts and an economic downturn, compounded by the scarcity of fuel, which affects daily life and the overall stability of the country.
How did the Ocean Mariner contribute to Cuba's energy needs?
The Ocean Mariner delivered around 86,000 barrels of fuel to Havana in January, serving as the most recent oil shipment from Mexico to Cuba, temporarily easing the island's fuel shortage.