Russia Evacuates Its Citizens from Cuba Amid Fuel Crisis on the Island

Russia plans to evacuate its tourists from Cuba in the coming days and suspend all flights until the fuel situation stabilizes.

The aviation regulator Rosaviatsiya announced this on Wednesday.

The airlines Rossiya, part of the Aeroflot group, and Severny Veter will only operate flights to return passengers from the island.

In joint statements, the carriers outlined that this flight regime will take effect on Thursday.

Why is Russia evacuating its citizens?

The suspension of air service was due to an acute shortage of aviation fuel. Cuban authorities warned international airlines that fuel on the island would be unavailable for refueling aircraft starting Tuesday.

The economic crisis in Cuba has worsened after the administration of US President Donald Trump declared the island a threat to national security.

Washington has blocked oil supplies from Venezuela and threatened tariffs on other suppliers, including Mexico.