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Thu, 14 May 2026

Thu, 14 May 2026 Cuba has run out of diesel and oil, energy minister says

The minister says the situation in Cuba is "extremely tense", as a US-led blockade of oil to the country causes widespread power cuts.

* Cuba has completely run out of diesel and fuel oil.
* Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy said there are limited amounts of gas available, but the energy system is in a "critical" state due to US-led blockade of oil supplies.
* Scattered protests against power cuts broke out in Havana on Wednesday.
* The US has reiterated its offer of $100m in aid to Cuba in exchange for "meaningful reforms".
* De la O Levy acknowledged that the situation in the country is "extremely tense", with hospitals unable to function normally and schools and government offices closed due to power cuts.
* Tourism, a major economic driver for Cuba, has also been impacted by the fuel shortages.
* The US blockade on oil supplies has caused widespread blackouts and fuel shortages, with parts of Havana experiencing 20-22 hour blackout periods.
* A Russian oil tanker has docked in Cuba, providing temporary relief after months of shortages.