Cuba’s ageing power infrastructure has buckled again, cutting electricity to more than 10 million islanders for the second time in seven days and sparking widespread concern over the nation’s deepening energy crisis.
The energy ministry quickly posted on social media to explain that a total disconnection of the National Electrical System has occurred, adding that protocols for restoration are already beginning to be implemented. Grid operator UNE focused first on reconnecting hospitals and water treatment facilities as crews worked through the night to stabilise the network.
This marks the third major outage this month, driven largely by Cuba’s heavy dependence on imported heavy fuel oil for nearly 90 per cent of its power needs, as Reuters has documented. A long-standing U.S. embargo has slashed those imports by over 40 per cent in recent years, leaving outdated generators vulnerable to collapse amid chronic shortages.
Frustration boiled over into rare public displays of anger on Monday. In central Havana, crowds banged pots and pans in the streets to protest the blackouts, while in the town of Morón further inland, demonstrators set fire to the local Communist Party offices. Cuban law forbids unsanctioned gatherings, with arrests and jail terms a common response.
International backing emerged over the weekend as a coalition of socialist organisations arrived in Havana bearing solar panels, basic food supplies and medicines to help those affected. Their flotilla, Nuestra America, sailed from Mexico despite stormy conditions and expects to dock in the capital on Monday.
U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly made the ouster of Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, a key ally to Venezuela, a condition for lifting fuel restrictions. He recently suggested a friendly takeover of the island would be an honour.
Addressing aid deliverers, Díaz-Canel stressed that Cuba maintains a preparation plan to raise our people’s readiness for defence should tensions escalate with America. He confirmed initial bilateral discussions are underway to tackle the standoff, although their pace is uncertain.
Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio told Reuters the political system of Cuba is not up for negotiation, and of course neither the president nor the position of any official in Cuba is subject to negotiation with the United States.
Without urgent fuel or upgrades, experts fear more disruptions could cripple tourism and food production even further.