The Mexican Foreign Ministry announced that two navy ships, carrying a total of 1,193 tons of aid, departed from Veracruz port on 24/2, bound for Cuba. The aid is expected to arrive on 28/2.

The ship Papaloapan transported 1,078 tons of beans and powdered milk, while the Huasteco carried 92 tons of beans and 23 tons of other food items. According to the Mexican Foreign Ministry, 23 tons of this humanitarian aid was provided by various social organizations with support from the Mexico City government.

This marks Mexico's second humanitarian aid package to Cuba this year.

The Mexican navy ship Papaloapan, carrying aid to Cuba, departs Veracruz port on 24/2. *Reuters*

Cuban Ambassador to Mexico Eugenio Martinez also announced the shipment. "We reiterate our sincere appreciation for the solidarity and support extended to our people," Martinez stated.

Mexico had previously sent approximately 814 tons of food and essential goods to Havana on 12/2. The Mexican Foreign Ministry declared that the country continues its tradition of solidarity with Latin American peoples, especially with the people of Cuba.

"Our country always supports brotherly nations facing difficulties," the Mexican Foreign Ministry stated.

Since January, the United States has blocked most oil supplies from Venezuela and Mexico to Cuba, leading to a severe energy deficit on the island, resulting in prolonged power outages and soaring food and transportation prices.

The US Treasury announced on 25/2 that it would issue licenses to companies wishing to resell Venezuelan oil to Cuba, provided these transactions "support the Cuban people, including the private sector." However, transactions involving or benefiting Cuba's military or government agencies would not be permitted.

By Ngoc Anh (Based on Washington Post, Granma)