Russian Airlines launches emergency flights to evacuate tourists stranded in Cuba amid severe fuel, power, and medicine shortages.
Airlines Launch Emergency Evacuation Operations
Rossiya Airlines, part of the Aeroflot group, has initiated special flights to Cuba to evacuate Russian tourists. The carrier suspended regular flights starting Thursday to facilitate these rescue missions, according to Radio Marti.
Thousands of Russian Tourists Stranded
Approximately 4,000 Russian tourists are currently trapped in Havana and Varadero, requiring safe passage home due to the island’s crippling fuel crisis. The paradise island faces severe underlying problems.
Cuba Bans Aviation Fuel Sales
The evacuation flights follow a Cuban government ban on aviation fuel sales. Russian aircraft will fly empty from Moscow to Havana and Varadero, as refueling is currently impossible on the island.
Fuel Crisis Worsened by Maduro Arrest
Cuba’s fuel and energy shortages have intensified for over two years. The situation deteriorated significantly after the January 3rd arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces, leading to cuts in Venezuelan oil supplies. Mexico previously supplied oil but halted transport due to US sanctions threats.
Chaos Paralyzes Tourist Resorts
Fuel and energy shortages are causing widespread chaos, with residents and tourists also facing critical shortages of food and medicine. Cuba’s economic crisis has also impacted tourism, with Russian visitor numbers dropping from 43,800 in 2024 to 22,300 in 2025.