Cuba is experiencing severe power outages due to depleted Russian oil supplies and the halting of deliveries from Venezuela following Nicolás Maduro’s detention.
Severe Energy Crisis Grips Cuba
Widespread power outages have been escalating across Cuba since Wednesday, reportedly stemming from the near-total depletion of a March oil delivery from Russia.
Independent Cuban media outlets report that the ongoing electricity disruptions are causing an “exceptionally serious energy crisis.” At least six Cuban power plants have temporarily suspended operations due to fuel shortages.
Power Outages Widespread
According to Radio Martí and Ciber Cuba, the power outages affecting Cuban cities are lasting for over a dozen hours, resulting from a lack of fuel in power plants.
Russian Oil Supply Ends
The Russian tanker Anatolij Kołodkin arrived in the port of Matanzas on March 31st with approximately 730,000 barrels of oil. This was the first oil shipment to the island since January, and the vessel is subject to U.S. and EU sanctions.
Venezuela Halts Deliveries
Venezuela, previously Cuba’s largest oil supplier under Maduro’s leadership, ceased deliveries to the island after his detention on January 3rd. Mexico also announced a halt to supplies after the U.S. threatened tariffs on countries selling oil to Cuba.
Provincial Impact
Cuban energy authorities indicate that the provinces of Holguín, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Matanzas were hardest hit on Thursday, with power outages exceeding 24 hours.
