Mexico sends second aid package to Cuba as US tightens energy blockade

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico has sent a second humanitarian aid package for Cuba as the island faces a tightened US embargo and threats of tariffs against countries providing it with oil.

Two Mexican navy vessels carrying 1,193 tons of supplies departed the Gulf of Mexico port of Veracruz on Tuesday, the Mexican Foreign Ministry announced.

The shipment is expected to arrive on Saturday.

The Papaloapan is carrying 1,078 tons of beans and powdered milk, while the Huasteco is transporting 92 tons of beans and 23 tonness of other food items. According to the Foreign Ministry, the final 23 tonnes of humanitarian aid were provided by various social organizations with the support of the Mexico City government.

It is the second humanitarian aid package this year to the island.

In February, Mexico dispatched more than 814 tons of food and hygiene products to Cuba while diplomatic talks continued regarding the resumption of oil supplies. The oil shipments were halted in mid-January, just before US President Donald Trump announced a significant tightening of the economic embargo on Havana.

Cuba relied heavily on oil shipments from Venezuela that stopped after the US attacked the South American country in early January and arrested its leader.

Cuba produces only 40% of its fuel needs and is highly vulnerable to external blockades.

While strong allies like Russia and China have condemned the US measures, their support has remained largely symbolic thus far.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.