Cuba reports island-wide blackout as country struggles with energy crisis Officials in Cuba reported a widespread power outage across the nation on Monday, affecting its 11 million residents as the country grapples with deepening energy and economic challenges. The government attributed the crisis to a U.S. energy embargo, which it claims has worsened by President Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs on nations supplying oil to the United States. The Ministry of Energy and Mines confirmed a "complete disconnection" of the country’s electrical grid, stating it was investigating the cause. President Miguel Díaz-Canel revealed that Cuba had not received oil shipments in over three months, forcing the government to rely on solar power, natural gas, and thermoelectric plants. He also disclosed that delays in medical services have led to postponed surgeries for tens of thousands of patients. A major blackout occurred earlier in the week, disrupting power in the western regions and leaving millions without electricity. The crisis has been compounded by the suspension of critical oil imports from Venezuela, which were halted after the U.S. attacked the South American nation in early January and arrested its then-president, Nicolás Maduro. Despite producing 40% of its petroleum and generating its own power, Cuba’s electric grid has continued to deteriorate, failing to meet growing demand. Díaz-Canel announced ongoing discussions with the U.S. government as the situation worsens, highlighting the nation’s urgent need for energy solutions. The blackout underscores the severe strain on Cuba’s infrastructure and its reliance on external energy sources amid prolonged economic hardship.#venezuela #donald_trump #cuba #miguel_dazcanel #nicols_maduro
