Russia stands with Cuba amid mounting US pressure

Russia has reaffirmed its support for Cuba amid what Moscow described as continuing tensions and increasing external pressure on the country.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov made the statement during a meeting with Cuba’s ambassador to Moscow, Enrique Orta González, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“Against the backdrop of continuing escalation of tensions around Cuba and increasing external pressure, the Russian side reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with the leadership and brotherly people of this country,” the ministry said.

It added that Russia had again expressed support for Havana’s demand for the “full and immediate” lifting of the economic, trade and financial blockade imposed by the United States.

US pressure on Cuba has intensified in recent months under President Donald Trump, with Washington expanding sanctions and restricting the island’s access to fuel and financial channels.

On August 20, the United States imposed additional sanctions on Cuba, targeting three officials and nine state-owned companies in the metals, mining and construction sectors. Reuters reported that the measures were part of the Trump administration’s broader campaign against the Cuban government.

The sanctions came after Washington tightened restrictions on Cuba’s access to fuel. Reuters reported in August that the country was facing a severe fuel shortage following the collapse of traditional supplies from Venezuela and Mexico. A US policy exception has allowed some fuel exports to private Cuban businesses, but scarce supplies have also fuelled a black market.

The economic pressure has contributed to widespread shortages and power cuts. Reuters reported that Cuba has struggled with shortages of fuel, electricity, water and essential goods, while the government has faced difficulties maintaining basic services.

The pressure has also hit tourism, a major source of income for Cuba. According to the Associated Press, the number of international visitors fell 62% in the first seven months of 2026 compared with the same period a year earlier, to about 419,000. The AP attributed the decline partly to the US energy embargo and additional sanctions affecting the tourism sector.

Cuban officials have condemned the US measures as an economic attack, while Washington has said its policy is intended to pressure the Cuban government.

By Aghakazim Guliyev