Cuba has run out of diesel and oil, energy minister says

May 14, 2026

Cuba is experiencing a severe energy crisis after completely depleting its diesel and fuel oil reserves, leaving only limited natural gas from domestic wells available. The country's Energy Minister attributes the critical situation to a US-led blockade that has prevented oil shipments, particularly after President Trump threatened tariffs on nations supplying fuel to Cuba, causing traditional suppliers Venezuela and Mexico to cut off deliveries. The prolonged blackouts lasting up to 22 hours have crippled essential services including hospitals, schools, and tourism, triggering the largest single night of street protests in Havana since the crisis began in January.

Who is affected

Cuban citizens across the island, particularly residents of Havana experiencing 20-22 hour blackouts
Residents of San Miguel del Padron neighborhood in Havana
Hospital patients unable to receive normal medical care
Students and school staff affected by closures
Government office workers impacted by closures
Tourism workers and businesses
Cuban Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez
Senior Cuban officials targeted by US sanctions

What action is being taken

The US is maintaining its blockade and sanctions on Cuba
Hundreds of Cubans are protesting in Havana streets, blocking roads with burning rubbish and shouting anti-government slogans
The US is reiterating its offer of $100 million in humanitarian aid
Cuban officials are publicly blaming the US for the crisis through state media and social media

Why it matters

This crisis represents a humanitarian emergency affecting millions of Cubans who lack access to basic electricity for essential services. The inability of hospitals to function normally puts lives at immediate risk, while the closure of schools disrupts education for an entire generation. The rare outbreak of significant protests in Havana signals growing public discontent in a country where such demonstrations are uncommon, potentially indicating a destabilizing political situation. The energy shortage also threatens Cuba's tourism industry, which is critical to the nation's economy, creating a cascading effect that could worsen the country's already difficult economic conditions.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC