An island-wide blackout in Cuba left many alarmed as the electrical grid collapsed once again, despite efforts to restore power. Residents in Havana were left without electricity, causing food to spoil in refrigerators and limited access to stores. The government opened an outdoor market in an upscale neighborhood to provide essential food items. Chronic power outages in Cuba have been exacerbated by aging infrastructure, fuel shortages, and increased energy demand. President Miguel Díaz-Canel blamed the U.S. embargo for the lack of fuel and currency needed to maintain the electrical system. The foreign minister, Bruno Rodríguez, echoed this sentiment, stating that the embargo’s damage is equivalent to maintaining the system for a year. The economic crisis in Cuba, worsened by U.S. sanctions and the pandemic’s impact on tourism, has led to shortages of food, medicine, water, and fuel. The limited supply of oil from ally Venezuela, as well as decreased shipments from other countries, has further strained the situation. The crisis has prompted a significant amount of migration, with over one million people fleeing the island in recent years. The ongoing blackout and economic challenges in Cuba highlight the country’s struggles with maintaining essential services and meeting the needs of its population.
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Once again, Cuba’s electric grid fails, leaving millions without power
