Fuel Shortage in Cuba Leaves Hundreds of Russian Tourists Stranded

Hundreds of Russian vacationers are facing major delays trying to leave Cuba, with some stuck for up to two days, due to a severe jet fuel shortage on the island. The situation, first reported by the Telegram channel Shot, stems from a broader energy crisis in Cuba, which is grappling with limited supplies of oil and transportation fuels.

The disruptions are most acute at the popular resort of Varadero. Airlines have been forced to redirect empty aircraft to Havana to find what little kerosene remains, causing significant flight schedule collapses. Passengers booked with Venezuelan carrier Conviasa have been left in limbo; their flight vanished from online boards, and the airline notified them it is suspending its Cuba flight program after February 22. Nord Wind is expected to provide aircraft for some pre-booked flights.

Cuba's Ministry of Tourism has issued statements attempting to reassure travelers, insisting the situation is under control. However, the scene at airports tells a different story of frustration and uncertainty. This incident echoes a similar stranding of dozens of Russians in Venezuela just last month, highlighting the growing travel instability for Russian tourists in some allied nations amid ongoing geopolitical pressures and economic strains.