Fuel shortages in Cuba have reached a critical level as the island nation continues to grapple with the impact of a long-standing economic embargo and recent geopolitical shifts. Operative Information Center-OMM, citing foreign media, reports that the country is facing severe energy challenges following the loss of significant energy support from Venezuela.
In response to the worsening crisis, the Havana administration has implemented rigorous austerity measures. According to the new government directives, the following restrictions have been introduced:
- Transition to a ration card system for fuel sales;
- Suspension of operations at several tourism facilities;
- Reduction of educational hours in schools;
- Implementation of a four-day work week for state institutions.
The aviation sector has been particularly hard hit by the shortage. Official sources stated that stocks of aviation gasoline are nearly exhausted, leading to a one-month suspension of fuel supplies to international airlines. This decision is expected to impact operations across all international airports in the country. The situation follows increased pressure from the United States administration following military developments in Venezuela on January 3. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla has strongly condemned the situation, describing the external pressure as "blackmail and violence."
Cuba has historically relied heavily on subsidized oil imports from Venezuela to meet its domestic energy needs and power its electrical grid. However, declining production in Venezuela and tightened international sanctions have forced the Cuban government to seek alternative energy sources and implement frequent blackouts. This latest fuel crisis threatens to further destabilize the nation's economy, which is heavily dependent on the tourism industry for foreign currency reserves.
