Mexico Denies Secret Oil Shipments to Cuba Amid Disinformation Claims

Mexico Denies Secret Oil Shipments to Cuba

The Mexican government has firmly denied allegations of secretly shipping crude oil to Cuba, a rumor that gained traction on social media. The denial, notably, did not come from President Claudia Sheinbaum or any member of her cabinet, but rather from the Mexican Embassy in the United States.

In a statement released on Thursday, February 12, 2026, the embassy described reports of clandestine oil shipments as “false” and part of “narratives designed to misinform.” The embassy attached an image of a note from UHN Plus, a media outlet that initially reported on the alleged shipment.

Ambassador Esteban Moctezuma, leading the embassy’s response, further rejected the rumors, stating that no oil had been shipped “secretly” or through “unconventional methods.” The embassy emphasized that Mexico’s foreign policy is guided by the principle of legality.

“Humanitarian cooperation should not be confused with non-existent or illegal actions in the energy sector,” the embassy stated, urging the public to critically evaluate information shared on social media and avoid spreading falsehoods.

The allegations centered on claims that crude oil was transported in cargo containers using an alternative storage system to conceal its true nature. Reports suggested the fuel was being sent under the guise of “humanitarian aid” without being formally declared as a hydrocarbon.

The embassy’s denial comes shortly after a publicly announced shipment of over 800 tons of humanitarian aid to Cuba, delivered via two ships. This aid included food, medicine, and essential supplies, and was widely reported by Cuban state media. Following the delivery of this aid, Cuban organizations in Mexico launched a donation drive in Mexico City, demonstrating support for the island nation amid its ongoing economic crisis.

The timing of the allegations also comes after comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed on February 2, 2026, that Mexico would halt oil shipments to Cuba.

The Mexican government has not commented on whether Trump’s claims influenced their decision to address the rumors, but reiterated that any cooperation with Cuba is conducted within the bounds of the law. The embassy’s statement underscores Mexico’s commitment to transparency and adherence to international regulations in its foreign relations.