Cuba has completely run out of diesel and fuel oil, according to Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy, leaving the national grid in a critical state with no energy reserves. The severe fuel shortage has led to extensive rolling blackouts, with parts of Havana experiencing outages of up to 20 to 22 hours, significantly worsening since Donald Trump's administration imposed a blockade.
Protests Erupt Over Prolonged Blackouts
These prolonged blackouts have sparked large protests in Havana, where hundreds of angry residents blocked roads with burning rubbish and demanded electricity. This marks the largest demonstrations since the energy crisis began, reflecting growing public frustration over the lack of power.
US Blockade Blamed for Crisis
The crisis is directly linked to a US blockade imposed by Donald Trump, who has openly threatened tariffs on any country supplying Cuba with fuel. This has caused traditional suppliers like Mexico and Venezuela to cease deliveries, exacerbating the shortage. The United Nations has condemned the US fuel blockade as unlawful, stating it obstructs the Cuban people's right to development and undermines their access to food, education, health, and sanitation.
In full, Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis as supplies of Russian oil run dry, compounding the effects of the blockade and leaving the nation struggling to maintain basic services.
