Cuba Faces Third Nationwide Blackout Amid Fuel Crisis

Cuba is grappling with its third nationwide blackout in a little over a week, exacerbated by a severe fuel crisis and ongoing U.S. pressure. Residents are concerned as food supplies spoil with refrigerators shut down, and daily life continues under phone torchlight.

This marks the fifth blackout since the beginning of 2026. The situation worsened following the U.S. capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which halted Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba. These shipments were vital for Havana, heavily reliant on fuel imports to maintain its aging energy networks.

The U.S. also threatened tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, with Havana officials labeling these actions as an oil blockade. Relations between the U.S. and Cuba have been tense for decades. Recent blackouts and fuel shortages have intensified as U.S. officials predict the collapse of Cuba’s communist government. This affects tourism, a crucial economic pillar.

An oil delivery from Russia at the end of March was depleted rapidly. Four Democratic Congress members visiting Cuba stated that the U.S. energy embargo has left the island like a “silent Gaza.” Cuba’s energy ministry announced efforts to restore power after a “total disconnection” of the National Electric System (SEN).

Unión Eléctrica, Cuba’s state electricity supplier, reported the grid disconnecting at 11 a.m. local time Tuesday, with some areas regaining power by the afternoon. Blackouts on July 6 and 10 previously plunged most of the 10 million residents into darkness.

Minister Vicente de la O Levy noted that electrical grid issues were worsened by U.S. actions. The “weakness” in Cuba’s energy networks results from no fuel, inadequate spare parts, and failing power plants.

Since the 1959 revolution, the U.S. has opposed Cuba’s communist government. In June, Cuba adopted significant economic reforms aiming to reduce U.S. influence by shifting toward free markets.

President Donald Trump stated in March that Cuba was nearing “its last moments,” while U.S. ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz described Havana as a “national security threat.” With Cuba located 90 miles off Florida’s coast, the Pentagon reports Russian and Chinese intelligence facilities on the island.

Trump suggested possible military action against Cuba, contingent upon completing Middle East operations. CIA head John Ratcliffe held meetings with Cuban officials in May. Additionally, in May, the U.S. formally charged ex-Cuban President Raul Castro with four counts of murder related to the 1996 civilian aircraft downing, sparking speculation about potential legal grounds for U.S. intervention.