People in Cuba are living in the dark

Cuba is facing a deepening humanitarian crisis as a U.S.-imposed oil blockade, intensified after the capture of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro, has cut off nearly all fuel supplies to the island. With only one tanker—Russian—reaching Cuba since January, blackouts now last an average of seven to eight hours daily, crippling hospitals, schools, and basic infrastructure. Young Cubans like Aileen and Gustavo describe living in a 'ghost town' of dark streets, cooking in makeshift kitchens, and spending a third of their meager salaries on private transport. Despite decades of economic hardship, Cubans have shown resilience, organizing communal efforts to survive. Yet the U.S. maintains its stance, with President Trump stating he has 'no problem' with oil shipments—though no policy change has occurred. Aid from Mexico, Spain, and Brazil has arrived, but urgent needs remain, especially for fuel. The episode reveals a stark contradiction: while the U.S. claims to seek improved living conditions, its actions are deepening a crisis that has already pushed the population to the brink. The crisis underscores how geopolitical strategy can inflict severe human costs. Cuba’s government insists it will not change its political system, even as citizens endure worsening conditions. The situation highlights the limits of economic coercion as a tool for regime change, especially when it targets civilians.