Putin Reaffirms Support for Cuba Amidst U.S. Sanctions

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parilla in Moscow on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, and reiterated Russia’s opposition to U.S. Restrictions on Cuba, deeming them “unacceptable.” The meeting underscores growing ties between Moscow and Havana as Cuba faces economic challenges, including fuel shortages caused by a U.S. Oil embargo.

Growing Russia-Cuba Ties

During the meeting at the Kremlin, Putin affirmed Russia’s support for Cuba, stating, “Now is a special period – new sanctions. You know how we feel about this issue. We do not accept anything like that,” according to Russian state media Reuters and Firstpost. He similarly noted that relations between the two countries are “developing in a positive direction.”

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also held talks with Rodriguez, urging the United States to refrain from a naval blockade of Cuba and instead pursue a negotiated solution The Independent. Lavrov promised continued support for Cuba’s sovereignty and security.

U.S. Sanctions and Cuban Crisis

Cuba is currently grappling with blackouts and severe fuel shortages stemming from a U.S. Oil embargo. The situation has been exacerbated by the cessation of oil shipments from Venezuela and Mexico following U.S. Actions The Independent. Former U.S. President Donald Trump had threatened tariffs on any nation selling oil to Cuba.

Russian Aid and Geopolitical Implications

A senior Russian diplomat previously indicated that Moscow intends to provide aid to Havana, including material support, to help the country cope with the oil supply constraints Reuters. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia values its relationship with Cuba and intends to further develop it, particularly during these tricky times The Independent.

Peskov also noted that Russia had not discussed the situation in Cuba with the United States, even as Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. Held trilateral peace talks in Geneva on the same day Reuters.

Rodriguez expressed gratitude for Russia’s “solidarity” amidst the intensified blockade and energy crisis, emphasizing the strength of the bilateral relationship and Cuba’s commitment to further cooperation AP News.