The energy and supply crisis in Cuba has reached a new critical point this March 2, 2026. Recent reports confirm that the island has not received significant oil shipments so far this year, a situation that the government itself has had to admit given the impossibility of maintaining basic services.

An Unprecedented Paralysis

The lack of fuel not only affects electricity generation, which already records historic deficits exceeding 65%, but has also paralyzed public and private transportation. The streets of major cities like Havana, Santiago de Cuba, and Holguín show minimal activity, with international flights canceled due to the inability of airports to refuel airlines with kerosene.

International organizations such as the UN have warned of extreme “humanitarian stress” on the island. Fuel in Cuba today determines whether hospitals can operate, whether water reaches homes, and whether food can be transported from the countryside to the cities.

Impact on Daily Life

Health: Hospitals depend on power generators operating on critical diesel reserves.
Transportation: 80% reduction in national bus routes.
Supplies: Acute shortage of basic products due to the impossibility of distribution.

The eyes of the international community remain on Cuba as the country navigates what many analysts describe as the “mother of all crises.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why is Cuba not receiving oil in 2026? The combination of an unprecedented foreign currency crisis, the tightening of external blockades, and the lack of credit lines with traditional partners has prevented the arrival of oil tankers.

2. What percentage of the country is affected by blackouts? During peak demand periods, more than 65% of the national territory remains without electricity simultaneously.

3. How is this affecting international flights? Several airlines have suspended operations to Cuba because airports cannot guarantee the fuel necessary for the return of the aircraft.

4. What measures is the Cuban government taking? An extreme rationing plan has been implemented and health centers have been prioritized, although the lack of supplies makes these measures insufficient.

External Sources

How we got here

Background

The first thing we published on this topic.

Feb 10, 2026

How Cubans Are Surviving the Fuel Rationing Crisis

Neighbors unite to cook with firewood, power cuts lasting up to 18 hours, and echoes of the Special Period. Testimonies from Havana on the energy crisis.

Feb 10, 2026