No fuel, no tourists, no cash - this was the week the Cuban crisis got real

The Guardian - World NewsEN 5 min read 100% complete by Ruaridh Nicoll in HavanaFebruary 15, 2026 at 07:00 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Cuba is facing a severe crisis marked by fuel shortages, economic slump, and mass migration, exacerbated by U.S. policies aimed at regime change. Diplomats in Havana are concerned about the lack of a clear U.S. plan beyond crippling the island by cutting off its oil supply, fearing widespread suffering within weeks due to disruptions in electricity, water, and food transport. The UN World Food Programme is struggling to provide aid due to the fuel crisis and is preparing for a larger humanitarian emergency. Some hope for a deal between the Cuban government and U.S. officials in Mexico, but embassies are preparing for potential unrest as the country is starved of resources.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Hurricane Melissa 30% Étienne Labande 30% Mexico 40% Raúl Castro 40% Venezuela 50% Alejandro Castro Espín 50% UN World Food Programme 60% Mike Hammer 60% Havana ×260% Washington ×270% United States ×480% Cuba ×590%

Keywords

cuban crisis 100% fuel shortage 90% economic slump 70% us policy 70% diplomatic tensions 60% regime change 60% hyper-inflation 50% food program 50% migration 40%