The Russian government has affirmed its commitment to assist in the restoration of Cuba's deteriorating electrical system during a meeting with Cuban representatives. The announcement was made in Moscow during a session between Russian Energy Minister Serguéi Tsiviliov and Cuban Deputy Prime Minister Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, according to a report by EFE.
"The construction of new energy facilities is a crucial step in restoring the operational capacity of Cuba's energy system," stated the Russian official, as quoted on a Telegram channel. He also expressed confidence that "the involvement and expertise of Russian specialists will significantly contribute to the energy sector" in Cuba.
Cabrisas Ruiz's visit to the Eurasian giant also served as an opportunity to discuss "the prospects of cooperation" in sectors such as fuel and energy between the two nations, noted the Russian Ministry of Energy. The discussions also centered on cooperation in the oil and gas sectors, with a particular focus on the Boca de Jaruco oil field project, where "high levels of crude extraction have been achieved." "The exchange of professional experiences will foster the development of dialogue between our countries in the field of energy," added the Russian Energy Minister.
Growing Cuba-Russia Dependency Amid Electrical Crisis
The expansion of this chapter in Cuba-Russia relations, which reaffirms the Caribbean island's dependency on the Eurasian giant, comes at a time when severe problems in the electrical system are causing prolonged blackouts across much of the country. The lack of fuel needed by thermoelectric plants, the technological obsolescence of these small generation industries—which frequently break down—and the ongoing maintenance of several units are factors contributing to the desperation of the Cuban people.
A few months ago, during the return of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel from Russia after a "surprise" visit, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla stated from the plane in a podcast version of the president's speech that "Russia is a major fuel supplier." He also noted that there are six business projects in Cuba funded by Russian money and four more, recently approved, about to be implemented. Another five are under "consideration," as Díaz-Canel revealed. All these projects are related to the energy system and food supply. However, he had to admit that there are "difficulties" and reluctance from Russia to proceed more rapidly.
The fact remains that, at the results level, the Cuban people have yet to see the benefits of the continuous trips made by both the president and members of his government to Russia. It remains to be seen how effective the current promise from the Eurasian nation's Energy Minister will be.
FAQs on Russia's Assistance to Cuba's Energy Sector
In light of the recent developments regarding Russian support for Cuba's energy sector, here are some frequently asked questions to provide more clarity on the situation.
What did the Russian Energy Minister promise?
The Russian Energy Minister promised to assist in the construction of new energy facilities to restore the operational capacity of Cuba's energy system.
What sectors are involved in the Cuba-Russia cooperation?
The cooperation between Cuba and Russia involves sectors such as fuel and energy, particularly focusing on oil and gas projects like the Boca de Jaruco oil field.
Are there any challenges in the cooperation between Cuba and Russia?
Yes, there are challenges and reluctance from Russia to proceed more rapidly with the projects, as admitted by Cuban officials.