Havana, Cuba — A shipment of humanitarian aid from Mexico and Uruguay arrived in Havana on Tuesday, as Cuba grapples with a deepening economic and energy crisis that has worsened shortages, blackouts, and scarcity of basic goods.
The merchant vessel Asian Katra, which departed from the port of Veracruz, docked in Havana carrying food and essential items, including powdered milk, rice, beans, and personal hygiene products. Cuban authorities said the cargo totaled approximately 1,700 tons and is destined for vulnerable populations.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel publicly thanked both countries on social media, calling the delivery a sign of regional solidarity during what he described as an especially difficult period for the island. He attributed part of the current hardships to the economic impact of the U.S. embargo and acknowledged the support from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration and Uruguay’s participation.
During the reception of the cargo, Cuban Minister of the Food Industry Alberto López Díaz expressed gratitude to Mexico, highlighting support from both the government and civil organizations.
Mexican Ambassador to Cuba Miguel Ignacio Díaz Reynoso said this was the eighth aid shipment from Mexico to the island, resulting from government and social sector efforts. He noted that Mexican contributions have now surpassed 6,000 tons in total.
The shipment arrives at a critical moment for Cuba, which produces only a fraction of the fuel it needs and struggles to guarantee energy supply, leading to prolonged blackouts and disruptions to services. In recent months, Mexico has sent multiple humanitarian aid shipments to support the Cuban population amid deteriorating economic conditions.
Separately, Russia recently confirmed it maintains constant communication with Cuban authorities to explore support and cooperation mechanisms.
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