The Duran Podcast UPDATE: Russian tankers to Cuba. Is it enough to prevent Cuba takeover?
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Mar 20, 2026 Discussion of US oil embargo tactics aimed at forcing political change in Cuba. Analysis of Russian tanker deliveries and why they may only provide short-term relief. Debate over whether the United States might intercept or restrict foreign shipments. Exploration of how Russian aid could translate into economic or political leverage for Cuba. Connections drawn between Cuba’s choices and wider regional geopolitics.
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Russian Tankers Provide Only Short Term Relief
- Russia sent two tankers to Cuba carrying oil and natural gas as an immediate relief measure.
- The shipments amount to roughly ten days of Cuban supply and relieve pressure only short-term unless followed by a long-term Russian commitment.
Cuba's Strategic Choice Between Russia Or Negotiation
- Cuba faces a strategic choice: use Russian aid to buy negotiation leverage with the US or pivot into a long-term Russian partnership.
- Mercouris warns using Russian oil merely to negotiate with Washington would be a 'fatal mistake' because US demands (led by Rubio) won't ease.
Russian Support Would Come At A High Political Price
- Russia would demand economic and political concessions for sustained support, not charity.
- Mercouris lists likely Russian demands: partial privatizations, major Russian investment, and large slices of tourism and luxury exports.