Nationwide Power Grid Collapse Leaves Millions Without Electricity
Millions of people in Cuba have been left without electricity following the collapse of the national electric grid on Monday, according to the country's power operator.
This incident is the latest in a series of extensive power outages affecting the island nation, which has been grappling with chronic fuel shortages intensified by a recent United States blockade on oil shipments destined for Cuba.
UNE, the Cuban grid operator, has reported that it is in the process of gradually restoring electricity across various provinces and cities throughout the country.
Background: Persistent Blackouts Amid Fuel Shortages
Cuba, an island with a population of approximately 10 million, has experienced widespread blackouts in recent years. These persistent outages have been a significant source of public dissatisfaction, leading to rare protests among the population.
The country relies heavily on imported fuel to meet its energy needs. Venezuela was previously supplying around 35,000 barrels of oil daily to Cuba, which accounted for about half of the island's oil requirements.
However, these shipments have ceased since the United States captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January. Since then, the US has intensified pressure on Cuba by intercepting several oil shipments bound for the island. Additionally, US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on any country that supplies oil to Cuba.
According to Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, no oil shipments have arrived in Cuba over the past three months.
Statements from US and Cuban Leadership
At the White House on Monday, President Trump made remarks regarding Cuba's situation:
"I believe I would have the 'honour of taking Cuba'. Whether I free it, take it, I could do anything I want with it, you want to know the truth. They're a very weakened nation right now."
Previously, Trump had threatened a "friendly takeover" of Cuba, a country that has been a longstanding adversary of the United States since the communist leader Fidel Castro overthrew a US-backed government in 1959.
Last week, President Diaz-Canel confirmed that his government is in the initial stages of discussions with the Trump administration aimed at resolving their differences.
Social Unrest Linked to Power Outages
The widespread power outages, caused by fuel shortages and faults within the power grid, have sparked protests among Cuban citizens in recent years.
Last week, protesters stormed a Communist Party building in the city of Moron following a rally addressing steep food prices and ongoing power cuts.
A resident of Havana shared her perspective with regarding the recent blackout:
"We're getting used to living like this," she said, noting that the blackout "didn't surprise" her.
