Under President Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican government has sent over 814 tons of humanitarian aid to Cuba to support the island amid its energy and supply crisis. This follows the suspension of oil shipments due to tariff threats from Donald Trump. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel thanked the gesture, emphasizing the historic solidarity between the two nations.
Cuba and Mexico share a historic friendship, from Mexican support during the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s to reaffirming ties despite the US embargo. Recently, this solidarity has shown in concrete actions amid tensions with President Donald Trump. Mexico halted oil shipments to Cuba after tariff threats to countries aiding the island with fuel, but Sheinbaum announced humanitarian aid instead.
On February 6, Sheinbaum stated during a conference in Michoacán that the government plans to send the aid in the coming days while diplomatically managing the resumption of oil shipments without exposing Mexico to sanctions. Two Mexican Navy ships arrived in Havana on February 12 carrying over 814 tons: the first vessel brought 536 tons of basic foods like rice, beans, meat, cookies, canned tuna, sardines, and vegetable oil, plus personal hygiene items; the second carried over 277 tons of powdered milk.
Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed thanks on social media. On Monday, he wrote: “Thanks, Mexico. For the solidarity, affection, the always warm embrace to Cuba.” On February 12, he added: “Thanks, Mexico. Thanks, dear Claudia Sheinbaum. The humanitarian aid from our Mexican brothers is worth not only as material cargo. In them travel solidarity, friendship, and the exemplary history of sovereignty and respect for others' rights that distinguish Mexico.”
Díaz-Canel attended Sheinbaum's 2024 inauguration, and the Cuban government congratulated her, stating: “Mexico is the brother that has always been present for Cuba. And vice versa.” Sheinbaum expressed openness to direct dialogue with Díaz-Canel if needed, though current contacts are via the Cuban embassy in Mexico.
Additionally, the Morena party launched the 'Colecta de Solidaridad con Cuba' to collect food, supplies, and medicines in 30 states. The list includes sildenafil (known as Viagra), used for erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension, among other drugs like metformin and omeprazole. Washington has increased pressure on Cuba, stating the island has “days counted” due to fuel shortages and seeking a “regime change.”
