Cuba plunges into third major blackout this year as power crisis worsens

 Cuba is currently facing a severe energy crisis, marked by widespread power outages impacting millions of its citizens. This ongoing crisis is intensified by sanctions from the United States, which are believed to restrict fuel supplies to the island.

● Energy Outage Details: On July 6, 2026, an island-wide blackout left approximately 10 million people without electricity due to a complete failure of the National Electric Power System. While some power was restored shortly after, the situation remains dire.

● Impact of Blackouts: The blackout halted public transportation and resulted in the cancellation of tens of thousands of scheduled surgeries across the country. Efforts to restore power included activating backup energy systems to maintain essential services.

● Government Response: The Cuban government, particularly through its Electric Union and President Miguel Díaz-Canel, has criticized the U. S. for imposing "genocidal" energy sanctions. The energy minister accused the U. S. of exacerbating Cuba's struggles by blocking access to necessary fuel.

● Causes of the Energy Crisis: Cuba has been dealing with an energy crisis due to chronic fuel shortages and aging power infrastructure. The crisis worsened after the U. S. increased sanctions in January, targeting countries supplying oil to Cuba. Earlier military interventions also impeded access to Venezuelan oil, further squeezing Cuba's energy supplies.

● Fuel Shortages: Cuba produces only about 40% of the fuel it requires. Earlier this year, a Russian tanker helped alleviate shortages temporarily by delivering oil, but these supplies have since been depleted.

● Scheduled Power Outages: To manage the crisis, the Cuban government has implemented scheduled blackouts lasting over 24 hours in some areas. This new approach aims to conserve dwindling fuel resources and address the frequent electrical outages.

Cuba's current energy crisis, characterized by significant blackouts, is largely attributed to a combination of poor infrastructure, chronic fuel shortages, and intensified U. S. sanctions. The Cuban government maintains that external pressures have severely limited its energy options, complicating efforts to restore full power to its citizens. 

https://www.foxnews.com/world/cuba-plunges-third-major-blackout-year-power-crisis-worsens