Cuban authorities reported that the country's electrical system has been restored after a nationwide blackout lasting more than a week, caused by U.S. oil embargo restrictions.
The electrical system was restored in two-thirds of Havana, Cuba's capital city, following a second blackout within a week. Over 9.6 million residents had been without power.
This blackout occurred while Cuba's communist government faces increasing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced a trade blockade preventing oil imports starting in January, and last week mentioned the possibility of "seizing" the Caribbean island.
A senior Cuban diplomat stated that the country's military is "preparing for the possibility of a military invasion."
Manuel Marrero Cruz, Cuba's Prime Minister, posted on social media thanking all electricity officials involved for their joint effort in restoring Cuba's power supply.
Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, Deputy Foreign Minister, said, "We sincerely hope it does not happen, and Havana is willing to continue negotiations with Washington. However, discussions about political system changes are beyond the scope." He added in an interview, "Cuba has no conflict with the U.S. We have the necessity and right to defend ourselves, but we are willing to sit down for talks."
Since 2024, Cuba has experienced seven nationwide blackouts, making life increasingly difficult for its people. Additionally, the country continues to face shortages of food, medicine, and other basic necessities.
The events have caused significant public dissatisfaction. At times, citizens have protested by making loud noises such as banging pots during the night, and some have protested by storming and damaging provincial offices of the Cuban Communist Party.
Tensions have escalated since socialist leader Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela—a key regional ally and major oil supplier to Cuba—was detained during a U.S. military operation in January, cutting off oil deliveries to Cuba.
This situation has impacted the energy sector, while public transportation has decreased, and airlines have reduced flights to Cuba, affecting the country's tourism industry.
Authorities stated that the latest blackout resulted from a malfunction at an aging thermal power plant, causing a cascading effect across the electricity production network.
The Cuban government reported that proactive measures are being taken to address the situation. They hope that energy fuel and oil will reach Cuba by some means and that the ongoing U.S. sanctions will not be prolonged and that a resolution can be found.
/source:CNA