A Russian tanker with 100,000 metric tons of oil arrived in Cuba on March 30, a day after U.S. ​President Donald Trump said he had "no problem" with any country sending ‌crude to the island, El Pais reported on March 30. This is the first oil shipment to arrive in Cuba since Jan. 9 and should meet two weeks of the country's oil demand.

The U.S.-imposed oil blockade on Cuba has exacerbated energy and humanitarian crises, marked by shortages of fuel and food and disruptions to public services and water provision, as Cuba relies on imports for 60% of the energy it consumes. The Cuban government on March 13 confirmed that it was engaging in diplomatic talks with the United States, which reportedly involve security and intelligence guarantees; the opening of Cuba's infrastructure, tourism and real estate sectors; and U.S. geopolitical objectives.