President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexico intends to send humanitarian aid — including food and basic supplies — to Cuba by Monday. She also said her government is pursuing diplomatic channels to resume oil shipments after halting deliveries in mid-January amid U.S. pressure. Washington has threatened tariffs on countries that supply Cuba, a claim Havana rejects, and Mexican officials are exploring ways to deliver fuel without provoking retaliation. The outcome is still uncertain.
Mexico to Send Humanitarian Aid to Cuba by Monday as Oil Talks Continue
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum speaks during her daily morning press conference, at the National Palace in Mexico City, Mexico, February 4, 2026. REUTERS/Quetzalli Nicte-Ha
Mexico City — President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Friday her government plans to dispatch humanitarian aid, including food and other essential supplies, to Cuba by Monday.
"We are planning to send this aid either this weekend or on Monday at the latest," Sheinbaum said during her regular morning press briefing.
Sheinbaum added that her administration is pursuing "all diplomatic efforts to be able to resume oil shipments to Cuba," after Mexico halted deliveries of crude and refined products to the island in mid-January amid pressure from the United States.
Washington has warned it may impose tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba, calling the island an "extraordinary threat" to U.S. national security — a characterization Havana rejects. "Obviously, we do not want sanctions against Mexico, but we are in the process of dialogue and, for now, humanitarian aid will be sent," Sheinbaum said.
Sources told Reuters this week that Mexican officials are exploring ways to provide fuel to Cuba to meet basic needs without triggering U.S. retaliatory measures. It remains uncertain whether Mexico will find a workable solution.
(Reporting by Raul Cortes; Editing by Emily Green)
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