Arabic version: كوبا تواجه أزمة طاقة مع نفاد إمدادات الديزل

Cuba has run out of diesel and fuel oil, leading to widespread protests as residents express their frustration over severe power blackouts. Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy confirmed the critical state of the national grid, stating, “We have absolutely no fuel [oil] and absolutely no diesel,” according to The Guardian.

Residents in Havana took to the streets late on Wednesday, demanding electricity and banging pots and pans to make their voices heard. The protests highlighted the dire circumstances, with blackouts lasting up to 22 hours. By Thursday morning, power was restored temporarily, but many areas, particularly in eastern Cuba, remained without electricity.

The current energy crisis is exacerbated by a U.S. blockade that has significantly limited fuel imports to the island. De la O Levy noted that the national grid is now relying solely on domestic crude oil, natural gas, and renewable energy sources after the fuel from a Russian tanker that arrived in April was depleted.

Despite having installed 1,300 megawatts of solar power over the past two years, the efficiency of these systems is hampered by grid instability and a lack of batteries. Negotiations for fuel imports continue, but rising global oil prices and transportation costs complicate these efforts. The blockade, now ongoing for four months, has crippled public services across Cuba, impacting nearly 10 million people.

The situation has drawn international criticism, with the UN labeling the blockade as unlawful, stating it obstructs the Cuban people’s right to development and essential services. As protests continue, observers warn that without a sustainable solution, the humanitarian crisis on the island could deepen further.