ISTANBUL

The White House said on Monday that a recent decision to allow a Russian oil tanker to deliver crude to Cuba did not represent a shift in US sanctions policy.

Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters there had been “no formal change in sanctions policy,” saying the administration permitted the vessel to reach Cuba to address local humanitarian needs.

Asked whether more tankers could follow, she responded affirmatively, noting such decisions are being assessed individually.

The US has maintained a blockade on oil shipments to Cuba for months. The Russian tanker in question is carrying an estimated 730,000 barrels of crude, providing a critical energy lifeline to the island amid deepening economic strain.