President Donald Trump stated he has no problem if a country wants to send oil to Cuba, effectively allowing Russian oil deliveries to the island nation facing a severe energy crisis.

"If a country wants to send oil to Cuba, I have no problem with that," Trump said, in a move that represents a significant departure from the traditional American policy of pressure on Cuba.

A Russian oil tanker has already arrived near Cuba - the first import in two months. Cubans have been facing a severe energy crisis for months, with frequent and prolonged power outages paralyzing daily life.

Trump's move is interpreted as part of a broader strategy for balancing relations with Russia, at a time when Washington is focused on the conflict with Iran in the Middle East.