Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis, with its supplies of fuel oil and diesel completely depleted. The critical situation was confirmed by Cuban Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy, who disclosed that the island nation has no reserves of these essential fuels, save for domestically produced well gas. This scarcity has plunged parts of the capital, Havana, into prolonged blackouts, some lasting up to 22 hours daily, igniting public frustration.

The acute shortage is largely attributed to ongoing U.S. sanctions, which have effectively prevented oil shipments from reaching Cuba since the beginning of the year. Minister de la O Levy described the country’s predicament as “extremely tense” and warned that the national electrical grid is in a “critical state.” He underscored the gravity of the situation, stating there is “absolutely none” of crude oil, fuel oil, or diesel available, relying solely on increased production from local gas wells.

The escalating energy woes have sparked public unrest in Havana, where hundreds took to the streets on Wednesday evening. Protesters reportedly blocked roads with debris and chanted demands for electricity, highlighting the widespread impact of the power outages. Historically, Cuba has heavily relied on oil imports from Venezuela. However, this supply chain has been severely disrupted since early January, coinciding with U.S. actions aimed at Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

The U.S. administration has labeled Cuba’s government an “unusual and extraordinary threat,” indicating a potential shift in diplomatic focus. Former President Trump previously signaled a willingness for discussions, stating, “Cuba is asking for help, and we are going to talk.” More recently, the U.S. State Department extended an offer of $100 million in aid to Cuba, contingent upon “meaningful reforms to Cuba’s communist system.” Washington has asserted that the onus is on the Cuban regime to either accept this assistance or face accountability for impeding crucial support for its populace.