[andy58-in-nh]

Not an entirely implausible scenario, but I have to wonder about the quality of engineering effort that Cuba would need to put forward, which is questionable given the fact that professionals there are poorly compensated, badly trained, and in short supply besides.

The larger question is why the hell we Americans passively allow a gaggle of environmental extremists and their bottom-feeding trial lawyer pals to make the gears of our economy grind and smoke on $3 a gallon gasoline? It's long past time for us to tell these bastards that our freedom and prosperity are more important than a bleeping snail darter.

[Truth29]

Agree with your larger question, but we seem to not only be unable to shake off the environmental extremists and their lawyers, but their influence and imposed restrictions are growing stronger.

Regarding the technical ability of Cuba to use sophisticated drilling and extraction techniques - my understanding is that they are bringing in international oil conglomerates including Chinese companies so the expertise will be imported.