Arabic version: كوبا تواجه أزمة طاقة مع نفاد إمدادات الديزل والنفط

Cuba has completely run out of diesel and fuel oil, according to energy minister Vicente de la O Levy. In a recent interview with state-run media, he highlighted that while there are limited amounts of gas available, the overall energy system is in a “critical” state due to a US-led blockade significantly restricting oil supplies.

Scattered protests against ongoing power cuts erupted in Havana, reflecting the frustrations of citizens facing severe energy shortages. De la O Levy noted that parts of the capital have experienced blackout periods lasting between 20 to 22 hours as a result of the blockade.

Hospitals are struggling to operate normally, and schools along with government offices have been forced to close. The tourism sector, a crucial component of Cuba’s economy, has also been adversely affected by the energy crisis.

Cuba typically relies on oil supplies from Venezuela and Mexico, but these have dwindled since former US President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on countries selling fuel to Cuba. In the wake of this crisis, the US has reiterated its offer of $100 million in humanitarian aid, contingent upon “meaningful reforms” to Cuba’s political system. However, the Cuban government has denied rejecting this offer, despite US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s claims.

The situation has escalated with the US imposing new sanctions on senior Cuban officials, which Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez has condemned as “illegal and abusive.”

According to BBC News, the humanitarian assistance from the US would be coordinated with the Catholic Church and reliable humanitarian organizations, leaving the decision for acceptance in the hands of the Cuban regime.