Russia says that Cuba is experiencing a severe fuel shortage and accuses the U.S. of attempting to strangle the island nation’s economy through sanctions and other restrictive measures.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the fuel situation in Cuba as “indeed critical” when asked about reported shortages of jet fuel and the potential impact on Russian tourists planning to leave the country.

He said on Tuesday that Moscow was maintaining intensive contact with Havana through diplomatic and other channels.

“The suffocating tactics employed by the United States are indeed causing many difficulties for the country. We are discussing with our Cuban friends possible ways to resolve these problems, or at least to provide all possible assistance,” Mr Peskov said.

Washington has designated Cuba as “an unusual and extraordinary threat” to U.S. national security and has said it would seek to block the island from receiving Venezuelan oil.

This follows its operations that culminated in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

The U.S. has also threatened to impose tariffs on other countries, including Mexico, if they continue supplying fuel to Cuba.

Amid shortages, Cuban authorities have warned international airlines that jet fuel will not be available on the island starting Tuesday.

Several carriers, including Air Canada, have announced suspensions or adjustments to flights to and from Cuba as a result.

(Xinhua/NAN)