What's happened
Cuba has run out of fuel oil and diesel, triggering severe blackouts that persist in Havana and across the island. Government says the blockade and sanctions are worsening shortages, while protests erupt in parts of the capital. Power remains unstable as the country relies on aging plants and limited domestic production.
What's behind the headline?
What this means for readers
- The energy blockade description has become central to Cuba’s framing of the crisis, but the actual fuel mix now relies on domestic crude and gas.
- The crisis is being amplified by aging power plants and maintenance outages, making outages longer even when fuel is available.
- The situation is likely to pressure the US and Cuba to negotiate, while domestic measures (solar expansion, fuel imports) may not quickly resolve shortages.
- Expect continued blackouts during peak demand and potential social and economic disruption in urban areas, especially Havana.
Forecast
- Power reliability will remain fragile in the near term, with extended outages possible in the capital and several provinces.
- International pressure and potential aid channels may influence the pace of fuel resupply and grid stabilization.
How we got here
Cuba has long depended on oil shipments from Venezuela and Mexico, but shipments have slowed or stopped. US sanctions and a crackdown on Venezuela’s oil have intensified Cuba’s energy squeeze. The crisis has escalated since 2024, with blackouts becoming more frequent and protests mounting as fuel shortages affect services including homes, schools, and health facilities.
Our analysis
New York Times: Frances Robles reports the government is grappling with an energy crisis, with Havana’s blackouts exceeding 20 hours in some cases. Al Jazeera: Elizabeth Melimopoulos notes protests across western Havana and the impact of sanctions, citing Diaz-Canel and de la O Levy. Reuters: Dave Sherwood reports partial restoration to essential services but widespread outages persist east of Camaguey. The Independent: coverage of protests and the blockade’s role in worsening shortages. The Guardian: notes the grid’s dependence on domestic energy and the broader blockade context.
Go deeper
- What is the current status of fuel imports to Cuba?
- How are everyday Cubans coping with the blackouts?
- Are there any signs of diplomatic progress aimed at easing the energy crisis?
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