Russian Tanker Anatoly Kolodkin Heads to Cuba, Defying US Oil Blockade

A Russian oil tanker, Anatoly Kolodkin, is set to arrive in Cuba, defying the US oil blockade, and bringing much-needed relief to the island nation. The tanker, carrying 730,000 barrels of crude oil, is expected to dock at the port of Matanzas, providing a temporary lifeline to Cuba’s energy-starved economy.

The shipment is significant, as Cuba hasn’t received any oil imports since January, leading to strict rationing of gasoline and exacerbating the country’s energy crisis. The oil is expected to be processed into diesel, meeting Cuba’s demand for around 12.5 days. US President Donald Trump has surprisingly allowed the shipment, stating he has “no problem” with countries sending oil to Cuba, prioritizing the island’s energy needs over the blockade.

This move comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Cuba, with Trump threatening to impose tariffs on countries sending oil to the island and suggesting the US could “take” Cuba.