Thu Feb 05 20:56:56 UTC 2026: # Cuba Faces Fuel Shortages and Blackouts as US Tightens Sanctions
The Story: Cuba is grappling with severe fuel shortages and widespread blackouts after the United States intensified its economic pressure by threatening tariffs on countries supplying oil to the island nation. President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced plans to mitigate the crisis, including ramping up solar energy production and increasing domestic crude oil extraction, while condemning the US actions as “aggressive and criminal.” The shortages have led to surging food and transportation costs, impacting essential services like hospitals, schools, and food production.
Key Points:
- US Sanctions: The United States is blocking fuel supplies to Cuba, leading to severe shortages.
- Renewable Energy Push: Cuba plans to increase solar energy generation, currently providing 38% of daytime power.
- Self-Sufficiency Measures: Efforts are underway to increase crude oil extraction and storage capacity.
- International Relations: Cuba has lauded a call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, while Mexico has pledged humanitarian aid.
- Infrastructure Failure: A substation failure caused a total blackout in five eastern provinces.
Critical Analysis:
The historical context provided does not give specific context for the crisis and events that are happening in Cuba at the time.
Key Takeaways:
- US sanctions are having a direct and significant impact on Cuba’s energy security and economy.
- Cuba is actively seeking alternative solutions, including renewable energy and increased domestic oil production, to mitigate the effects of the sanctions.
- The situation is creating hardship for ordinary Cubans and straining essential services.
- Cuba is appealing to international partners for support and is willing to engage in dialogue with the US, but only on the condition of non-interference in its internal affairs.
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