Coral Gables-based Vanguard Energy has entered a landmark agreement to lease fuel storage facilities from the Cuban government, enabling the supply of gasoline and diesel to Cuba's private sector and humanitarian organizations. This deal follows the Trump administration's authorization of oil exports for private sector activities without specific licenses. Vanguard will now ship fuel in large oil tankers, allowing for a more efficient supply chain compared to the previous method using ISO tanks, which had limited capacity. The company plans to deliver over 250,000 barrels of fuel monthly, retaining ownership until payment is made in the U.S. This move aims to alleviate Cuba's ongoing energy crisis, exacerbated by the halting of Venezuelan oil shipments. The agreement represents a significant shift in Cuba's fuel sector, potentially opening the door for further U.S. involvement in the island's energy market. Legal experts involved in the negotiations emphasize the importance of compliance measures to ensure that fuel does not benefit the Cuban government or military. The deal is seen as a potential catalyst for future privatization in Cuba's energy landscape.