Energy crisis in Cuba
The US has halted oil and financial aid supplies from Venezuela to Cuba, exacerbating the already critical energy crisis on the island. Donald Trump announced this and called for negotiations. Meanwhile, Cuba's President Miguel Díaz-Canel rejected Washington's pressure, stating that the country is prepared to defend itself to the last drop of blood.
Since Nicolás Maduro took power, no tanker has left Venezuelan ports towards Cuba, significantly complicating the situation. Venezuela provided about 50% of the fuel deficit in Cuba, so the cessation of supplies has intensified existing problems. The island, already in a deep energy crisis, faces power outages: most of the population in the capital and regions is without electricity for most of the day.
Socio-economic consequences
Moreover, there is a shortage of food and medicines in Cuba, further complicating citizens' lives. The economic decline caused by these issues has triggered a record wave of Cubans fleeing to the US. Trump noted that Cuba has always been financially dependent on Venezuela, emphasizing the country's vulnerability under new sanctions.
At the same time, Washington is preparing a deal with the temporary government of Delcy Rodríguez for $2 billion, which could influence the further development of events. It is important to note that 32 Cuban law enforcement officers were killed during a US raid in Venezuela, adding tension to an already complicated situation. Meanwhile, Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the country's status as an important oil supplier, but for Cuba, these changes may be insufficient to overcome the crisis.
Cuba has always been financially dependent on Venezuela.
Donald Trump
The situation in Cuba is the result of prolonged economic decline, worsened by the lack of energy resources necessary for the country's normal functioning. The US withdrawal of support for Venezuela further underscores Cuba's vulnerability, which relies on external supplies. In the context of increasing political tension and economic difficulties, the further development of events may significantly affect Cuba's internal stability and its relations with other countries in the region.