Cuba Faces Severe Energy Crisis Amid Fuel Shortages

Cuba has depleted its reserves of diesel and fuel oil, essential for operating the national electrical grid, according to Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy. He stated that the country has "absolutely no fuel oil, and absolutely no diesel," leaving the grid in a "critical" state without reserves.

The capital, Havana, is experiencing severe blackouts, with some neighborhoods enduring power outages of up to 22 hours daily. The national grid is currently relying solely on domestic crude oil, natural gas, and renewable energy sources. Despite installing 1,300 megawatts of solar power over the past two years, grid instability due to fuel shortages has reduced the efficiency and output of these renewable sources.

The fuel crisis has been exacerbated by a U.S. blockade on fuel imports, now in its fourth month, which has significantly impacted public services across the island. The United Nations recently described the blockade as unlawful, stating it obstructs the Cuban people's rights to development, food, education, health, and sanitation.

In January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order threatening tariffs on countries supplying fuel to Cuba, leading traditional suppliers like Mexico and Venezuela to halt shipments. Since then, only one significant delivery has occurred: the Russian-flagged tanker Anatoly Kolodkin provided crude oil in April, offering temporary relief.

Minister de la O Levy emphasized Cuba's openness to purchasing fuel from any willing seller, despite the challenges posed by the blockade and rising global oil prices amid geopolitical tensions.

The ongoing energy crisis has led to widespread disruptions, including the closure of schools and universities, strain on the healthcare system, and a decline in the tourism industry. Critics argue that the U.S. blockade has deepened the humanitarian crisis on the island.