"The situation in Cuba is quite serious, we are aware of that. We are maintaining close contact with our Cuban friends through diplomatic and other channels," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said at a press conference on 9/2, when asked about the situation in Cuba.

Peskov's statement followed a White House announcement on 29/1 that it would impose additional tariffs on goods from countries directly or indirectly supplying any amount of oil to Cuba. The US did not specify the tariff rates or the countries on this list, but the Kremlin made it clear that they are dissatisfied with the US's treatment of Cuba.

"The strangulation tactics applied by the US truly cause many difficulties for Cuba. We are discussing with our Cuban friends possible ways to resolve these issues, or at least provide all possible assistance," the Kremlin spokesman stated.

Russian Ambassador to Cuba Viktor Coronelli said last week that Moskva has repeatedly supplied oil to Havana and will continue to do so, despite threats of tariffs from the administration of US President Donald Trump.

Cuba relies on imported oil to operate its thermal power plants. A lack of fuel was one of the causes of widespread power outages in Cuba last year.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez criticized the US tariff move, calling it a "cruel act of aggression" against Cuba and its people. The US has not commented on this statement.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in Moskva in 12/2024. Photo: AFP

Mexico and Trung Quoc previously expressed deep concern and objected to US actions against Cuba, warning that the US move "could trigger a widespread humanitarian crisis, directly affecting hospitals, food supplies, and other basic services for the Cuban people."

Pham Thu Hang, spokesperson for the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated on 2/2 that Viet Nam is deeply concerned about the US's additional tariffs on goods from countries supplying oil to Cuba. These measures severely impact the island nation's economic, social activities, and the lives of its people.

Viet Nam reaffirmed its support for resolutions adopted by the United Nations General Assembly over many years, calling on the US to immediately lift the unilateral embargo and sanctions against Cuba. Viet Nam urged the US to take steps towards dialogue and improved relations with Cuba.

"Once again, Viet Nam strongly affirms its solidarity and traditional friendship with the fraternal Cuban people," the spokesperson emphasized.

Cuba announced its plan to respond to the current situation on 6/2. Minister of Trade Oscar Perez-Oliva stated that the government will provide fuel to the tourism and export sectors to secure the necessary foreign currency for funding other essential programs.

Perez-Oliva also announced a plan to cultivate 200,000 hectares of rice to meet "a significant portion of domestic demand." The education and health sectors are also being adjusted to suit the situation.

"This is both an opportunity and a challenge that I am confident we will overcome," Perez-Oliva said on television. "We will not fall."

As Tam (According to Reuters, AFP)