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Trump Backs Russian Oil Shipment to Cuba Amid Crisis

3/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump said he supports a Russian oil tanker delivering crude oil to Cuba, citing Cuba's energy crisis from the U.S. blockade.
The tanker carries about 730,000 barrels and is due to arrive by Tuesday.
Trump dismissed concerns the shipment would aid Putin, saying the impact would be minimal.
Separately, the U.S. military is preparing ground raid plans in Iran as talks pursue a peace deal amid tensions.

History

Historical Context

The Cuban Oil Crisis began in 1990 after the Soviet Union's collapse, which drastically reduced Cuba's oil imports, previously supplied by the USSR. The U.S. trade embargo, in place since 1962, worsened the situation, forcing Cuba to seek oil from Venezuela. Trump's support for a Russian tanker delivering 730,000 barrels to Cuba highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting energy security and diplomatic relations.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump said he supports a Russian oil tanker delivering crude oil to Cuba, citing Cuba's energy crisis from the U.S. blockade.
The tanker carries about 730,000 barrels and is due to arrive by Tuesday.
Trump dismissed concerns the shipment would aid Putin, saying the impact would be minimal.
Separately, the U.S. military is preparing ground raid plans in Iran as talks pursue a peace deal amid tensions.

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