BASSETERRE – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in St. Kitts and Nevis on Wednesday morning to meet with regional leaders during the 50th Heads of Government Meeting of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Central to the discussions is the deteriorating situation in Cuba, where prolonged fuel shortages have triggered a severe energy crisis, leading to widespread power outages and mounting economic hardship. CARICOM leaders are calling for dialogue and a stronger humanitarian focus, warning that a deepening crisis on the island could have far-reaching consequences for regional security, migration flows and economic stability across the Caribbean.
In addition to Cuba, the agenda includes migration and deportation policies, regional security challenges such as drug trafficking and cross-border crime, and the broader geopolitical relationship between the United States and the Caribbean region.
Against this backdrop, signs have emerged of a cautious adjustment in U.S. policy related to Cuba’s energy situation. Under specific conditions, the resale of Venezuelan oil for use on the island is reportedly being allowed, primarily to address humanitarian needs and support parts of the private sector. At the same time, U.S. sanctions remain firmly in place with regard to fuel deliveries to Cuban state institutions.
Cuba’s ongoing fuel shortages have already resulted in repeated electricity blackouts and deepening economic problems, heightening concerns among neighboring countries about spillover effects throughout the region.
Curaçao is also represented at the summit, with Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas attending the CARICOM meeting in St. Kitts and Nevis as discussions continue on how regional cooperation can address shared economic, security and humanitarian challenges.