Following a brief restoration of electricity in parts of Cuba after an island-wide blackout, the electrical grid suffered a total collapse once again on Saturday, causing alarm among residents. The government reported disconnection from the national electric system and is working to re-establish power. In Havana, streets were deserted, traffic lights were out, and people were searching for food due to spoiled refrigerated items. Some stores were open, with state-run ones operating without power and privately owned ones using generators.
The government attempted to prevent a complete blackout by closing schools and keeping state workers at home to conserve energy before Friday’s collapse. Chronic power outages in Cuba have worsened due to aging infrastructure, energy demand, and fuel shortages exacerbated by the U.S. embargo. President Miguel DÃaz-Canel blamed the embargo for lack of fuel and currency, warning of ongoing blackouts even after power is restored. Foreign Minister Bruno RodrÃguez criticized the embargo, stating that its damage in 18 days equals the annual cost of maintaining the national electric system.
Cuba’s economic crisis, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and the pandemic’s impact on tourism revenue, has led to shortages in food, medicine, water, and fuel. Oil supply has dwindled as Venezuela, the main oil supplier, reduced shipments, and other suppliers decreased exports. The economic crisis has fueled significant migration, with over one million Cubans leaving the island between 2022 and 2023.
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