Cuba Weighs $100M U.S. Aid Offer Amid Fuel Crisis

Cuba said Thursday it is open to considering a $100 million humanitarian aid proposal from the United States, though officials remain doubtful about President Donald Trump’s broader intentions as the island struggles through a worsening energy and economic crisis.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez stated that Havana would review the aid package if it comes without political conditions or attempts to influence the country’s internal affairs. His comments followed renewed claims from the Trump administration that Washington had offered humanitarian assistance along with access to fast satellite internet in exchange for what U.S. officials described as “meaningful reforms.”

Rodriguez dismissed earlier reports of the proposal as a “fable,” but U.S. officials repeated the offer this week, escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Cuba’s economic conditions have sharply deteriorated since Trump threatened tariffs in January on countries supplying oil to the Caribbean nation. Key partners including Venezuela and Mexico reportedly reduced fuel shipments, contributing to severe shortages of gasoline and widespread electricity outages across Cuba. The crisis has heavily affected transportation, healthcare services, food distribution, and daily life for millions of Cubans.

The United Nations recently criticized the U.S. fuel blockade, calling it unlawful and warning that the sanctions undermine Cuba’s rights to food, healthcare, education, and sanitation.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the government would accept humanitarian aid if it respects international standards. However, he described Washington’s approach as “inconsistent and paradoxical,” arguing that lifting U.S. sanctions would provide more meaningful relief than temporary assistance.

Diaz-Canel said any incoming aid would prioritize fuel, medicine, and food supplies. Meanwhile, the Trump administration continues to accuse Cuba’s communist government of corruption and incompetence while seeking political change on the island.

Despite rising tensions, diplomatic contacts remain active. Cuba confirmed Thursday that CIA Director John Ratcliffe recently met with Cuban intelligence officials to discuss economic security and potential future cooperation if Cuba implements major reforms.