Venezuela loads 150K barrels for Cuba despite US blockade

Amid the most severe oil blockade in decades, Venezuela is not giving up. A tanker that has transported Venezuelan fuel to Cuba since April 2025 finished loading 150,000 barrels of gasoline destined for the island this week, according to a shipping schedule reviewed by Reuters.

Trump’s Energy Siege

Since early February 2026, the Trump administration intercepted tankers carrying Venezuelan crude and threatened tariffs against any nation that dares to supply Havana. The results: canceled flights, extended blackouts, industrial shutdowns, and the 2026 Habano Festival suspended.

Caracas Pushes Back

Despite the risk of commercial retaliation, Venezuela has maintained a reduced supply line. The 150,000-barrel cargo covers barely three days of minimum consumption in Cuba, but sends a clear political signal: Caracas remains willing to defy Washington.

A Geopolitical Test

Mexico sent two ships with humanitarian aid to Havana in February, and Russia announced plans to send crude shipments. What is happening in the Caribbean is not just an energy crisis — it is a geopolitical standoff between Washington and a bloc of countries rejecting unilateral US pressure.

For now, the Venezuelan tanker sails on. And with it travels something more than gasoline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much gasoline did Venezuela send to Cuba this week?

A tanker that has regularly transported Venezuelan fuel to Cuba since April 2025 finished loading 150,000 barrels of gasoline this week, according to a shipping schedule reviewed by Reuters.

Can Venezuela keep supplying Cuba despite the US blockade?

Despite Trump administration threats of tariffs against any country supplying Cuba, Venezuela has tried to maintain shipments, though at reduced frequency and volume compared to before the blockade.

What has the US oil blockade done to Cuba?

The blockade has caused power outages lasting up to 20 hours, international flight cancellations, mining shutdowns, and forced Cuba to cancel the prestigious 2026 Habano Festival.

Which other countries have tried to help Cuba with fuel?

Mexico sent two ships with humanitarian aid to Havana in February 2026. Russia announced plans to send crude oil shipments, though it also temporarily suspended tourist flights due to Cuba's jet fuel shortage.