Fuel Crisis Cuts Cuban Holidays Short for Russian Tourists

HAVANA, Feb 17 – The departure hall at José Martí International Airport held an unusual scene this Monday: a single, crowded check-in counter for Rossiya Airlines, surrounded by passengers in beachwear. They were the latest group of Russian tourists cutting their Caribbean vacations short, flying home with a palpable sense of frustration.

Speaking to reporters, travelers—including families and couples—expressed clear annoyance over their truncated holidays and unresolved questions about compensation from tour operators for lost days and flights.

The exodus stems from a severe fuel shortage crippling Cuba. The crisis, which has disrupted power generation and basic services, was exacerbated by a recent order from U.S. President Donald Trump. The 2025 order threatens tariffs on nations supplying oil to the island, tightening the existing embargo's grip. The jet fuel scarcity has forced several international airlines to suspend service, stranding visitors.

A Russian diplomat on site provided figures, noting an estimated 3,000 to 3,500 of their citizens were affected as of February 9. 'Six evacuation flights have already departed. More are scheduled with Rossiya and Nordwind airlines, and our citizens are also leaving via transit through other countries,' the official stated before a seventh flight departed for Russia.

Russian Ambassador to Cuba Víctor Coronelli, in a recent television interview, said negotiations are underway to facilitate refueling for Russian aircraft bound for the island. He expressed confidence that Russian tourists would return, but for now, the flights heading north are full of those leaving paradise early.