Cuba has officially run out of oil and diesel, according to Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy, who stated on state media that the country has 'absolutely none' of these fuels remaining, with only gas from domestic wells available as production has grown in that sector [1]. The ongoing U.S. blockade, which has blocked oil shipments into Cuba since January, has led to blackouts lasting up to 22 hours a day in parts of Havana, creating an 'extremely tense' situation, according to de la O Levy [1].
The energy crisis has triggered public unrest, with Reuters reporting protests in Havana where hundreds of people crowded the streets, blocked roads with garbage, and shouted demands for electricity [1]. De la O Levy further warned that Cuba has 'no reserves' and that the national grid is in a 'critical state,' as reported by the Guardian [1].
Cuba's reliance on Venezuelan oil has been disrupted since early January, following a U.S. military operation aimed at removing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, effectively cutting off the island's main fuel supply [1]. The Trump administration has labeled Cuba's government as 'an unusual and extraordinary threat,' and indicated that U.S. attention could shift to Cuba after the Iran war concludes [1].
In response to the crisis, former President Trump stated on Truth Social that talks between the U.S. and Cuba would occur, though he did not specify a timeline [1]. The U.S. State Department announced its willingness to provide $100 million in aid to Cuba, contingent on the Cuban government's acceptance and implementation of 'meaningful reforms' to its communist system [1]. The State Department emphasized that the decision to accept or deny the aid rests with the Cuban regime, which would be accountable to the Cuban people for its choice [1].
CONCLUSION
Cuba is experiencing a severe energy crisis due to depleted oil and diesel supplies, a direct result of U.S. sanctions and the loss of Venezuelan imports. The situation has led to widespread blackouts and public protests, with the U.S. offering conditional aid. The Cuban government's response to this offer will be critical in determining the country's immediate future.