Canada announced it is preparing a Cuba assistance plan in response to the growing energy crisis affecting the island. This situation has been worsened by recent actions by the United States, which has intensified its blockade of oil supplies to Cuban territory.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed that Ottawa is working on an aid framework, though she avoided detailing what that assistance will entail. “We are preparing an assistance plan. At this time we are not prepared to provide further details about an announcement,” Anand said during an appearance in Ottawa.
Fuel shortages are impacting daily life in Cuba
The situation in Cuba has deteriorated rapidly since Washington stepped up efforts to prevent any crude shipments, including those from Venezuela, from reaching the island. This has led to rising transport and food prices, prolonged power outages, and growing social discontent.
According to warnings from international organizations, the lack of fuel is triggering a chain of impacts that could lead to a humanitarian crisis if action is not taken promptly. The UN Human Rights Office noted that the energy shortage threatens to destabilize sectors such as health, education, and water supply.
Canada and the United States: allies under strain
Although traditionally allies, Canada and the United States have shown signs of friction during the Trump administration. Issues such as trade tariffs, policy toward China, or statements by the Canadian prime minister about U.S. hegemony have cooled bilateral relations.
The Cuban ambassador to Canada publicly denounced that the White House is trying to overthrow the Cuban government. Meanwhile, Canadian diplomats have described the situation on the island as “serious,” though they also acknowledge that the regime maintains institutional control in Havana.
Ottawa tries to balance its international role
With this move, Canada seeks to position itself as a balanced actor on the international stage, promoting regional stability and preventing a humanitarian collapse within its geographic sphere of influence. While the details of the Cuba assistance plan have not yet been disclosed, experts note that it could include technical support, shipments of basic supplies, or cooperation in the energy sector.
The outcome of this crisis will depend on the ability of international powers to negotiate diplomatic pathways and reduce the escalation of sanctions that threatens to further paralyze the Cuban economy.
Source: Reuters