Global Affairs Canada has unveiled an $8 million aid package for Cuba in response to the impact of the oil embargo imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The funding, aimed at enhancing local food security and nutrition, will be channeled through partnerships with the World Food Program and the United Nations Children’s Fund to bolster food and nutrition support for vulnerable Cubans.
Following the disruption in Cuba’s fuel supply after the U.S. administration took control of Venezuela’s oil exports, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed that discussions regarding aid intentions were not held with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Emphasizing Canada’s commitment to humanitarian assistance, Anand stated that the aid reflects Canadian foreign policy’s dedication to supporting countries in need during crises.
Cuban Ambassador Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz, testifying before the House foreign affairs committee, highlighted the adverse effects of the U.S. oil blockade on Cuba, characterizing it as an attempt to provoke a humanitarian crisis for regime change purposes. The aid initiative comes at a critical time as Cuba grapples with blackouts and shortages of essential resources like food, fuel, and medicine.
The Ministry of Energy in Cuba has indicated that the country is reliant on its domestic oil production for about 40% of its oil consumption, despite the challenging situation. Randeep Sarai, the secretary of state for international development, emphasized the severity of the humanitarian crisis in Cuba and stressed that the expedited funding program aims to provide a significant uplift to the Cuban population.