Canada promises food aid to Cuba amid US fuel blockade

Canada pledged C$8 million in food aid to Cuba, to be delivered through United Nations agencies, while Mexico has sent a separate shipment of more than 1,100 tons of supplies amid worsening fuel and supply shortages on the island.

Canada has pledged C$8 million in food assistance for Cuba as the island faces worsening fuel and basic-supplies shortages. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said the decision was a Canadian policy choice and was not discussed with US officials. The funding will be channelled through United Nations agencies rather than distributed directly by the Cuban government. Key facts: - Canada pledged C$8 million (about US$6.7 million) in food aid to Cuba. - Minister Anita Anand said the aid was not discussed with US officials and reflects Canadian foreign policy. - The funds will be routed through established United Nations agencies for distribution. - Mexico dispatched two navy vessels carrying a combined 1,193 tons of food supplies, with that shipment reported as expected to arrive on Saturday. Summary: The announced aid is presented as a humanitarian response to immediate food shortages amid broader fuel and supply difficulties in Cuba. The Mexican shipment is scheduled to arrive on Saturday; other diplomatic or supply developments are undetermined at this time.