Cuba hit with seventh major blackout of the year

Cuba faced its seventh major blackout of the year on Friday, exacerbated by fuel shortages imposed by the US energy blockade. Havana was left with only 5% power on Friday evening, with the entire electrical system reportedly down, according to the energy ministry. The blackout, the 12th since late 2024, was caused by transmission lines failure and unstable weather, as reported by state-run utility UNE.

The island, home to over nine million people, experiences frequent power cuts due to its aging thermoelectric plants. However, the situation has worsened since January when the US imposed a de facto energy blockade. Fuel scarcity makes it challenging to supply power plants and generators, which typically run on imported diesel.

Residents, such as 36-year-old schoolteacher Lidia Fernandez, expressed their frustration and helplessness, stating that the constant power outages have significantly impacted their lives. In the capital, blackouts can last over 30 hours, while in outlying provinces, they can extend to more than 60 hours. Retiree Francisco Rodriguez experienced a 28-hour power outage on Friday, fearing that they may go without electricity for several days.

The living conditions have become extremely difficult for residents, with the electricity cuts also affecting the water supply and mobile phone network. Havana attributes the crisis to US-imposed punitive measures, while Washington attributes it to poor internal management. The economic crisis on the island has led to 66% of the population living in poverty, up from 45% in mid-2025, according to a study by the Christian Center for Reflection and Dialogue.