Aid flotilla reaches Cuba amid US oil blockade and blackouts

A nationwide blackout has plunged Cuba into darkness, affecting over 10 million residents and businesses. The power outage, reported by the BBC's Will Grant from Havana, is due to the collapse of the country's national electrical grid. Cuba has experienced multiple blackouts this month, which are attributed to chronic fuel shortages and an aging electricity infrastructure. The fuel shortages are reportedly exacerbated by a US fuel blockade that restricts foreign oil imports needed to operate power stations. The Communist-run island nation is struggling to maintain a stable power supply amid these challenges.

Cuba experienced its second nationwide blackout in less than a week on Saturday, and the third in March, after a generating unit failed at the Nuevitas thermoelectric plant. The Cuban Electric Union attributed the cascading failure to this unexpected event. The blackouts, impacting the island's 9.6 million residents, have left streets dark and disrupted daily life, with some areas experiencing outages of up to 15 hours. Authorities are working to restore power, prioritizing vital centers like hospitals. The Cuban government cites a US-imposed energy blockade as a contributing factor to the strained power network.

Cuba experienced a nationwide power grid collapse on Saturday, March 21, 2026, leaving the entire island without electricity for the third time in March. The state-owned Cuban Electric Union reported the total blackout but did not specify the cause. Restoration efforts are underway. The blackouts are attributed to the country's decaying infrastructure and a U.S.-imposed oil blockade, creating challenges for the communist government. Residents of Havana were photographed spending the night in darkness along the Malecon seawall.

Cuba is recovering from its latest nationwide blackout, the second in a week and third in March, which affected millions, including hospitals in Havana. The blackouts are attributed to failures in the country's aging power grid, exacerbated by a shutdown at the Nuevitas thermoelectric plant. This comes amidst a US oil blockade, initiated after the US cut off oil supplies to Cuba after abducting Venezuela’s President Maduro, which Cuba says is pushing its economy to the brink. In response to recent threats from US President Trump to take over the island, Cuba's Deputy Foreign Minister stated the nation is prepared for any potential US military aggression, though they don't believe it is probable. The US has warned potential oil exporters to Cuba that they could face high tariffs.

Amidst an oil blockade imposed by the US, Cuba is preparing for a potential military engagement with the United States, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio. His statement follows escalating rhetoric from former US President Donald Trump, who suggested he would have the "honour" of taking over Cuba. De Cossio stated that while Cuba does not believe military action is probable, they are preparing as a precaution. He also refuted reports that the US is seeking to negotiate the structure or members of the Cuban government, emphasizing that regime change is not on the table in discussions with the US. Despite the heightened tensions, the top US general overseeing forces in Latin America stated that the US military is not actively preparing to invade Cuba.

In March 2026, an aid flotilla reached Cuba to deliver food and medical supplies. The arrival comes as Cuba faces severe fuel shortages and widespread blackouts. A US-imposed oil blockade is cited as the cause of the shortages. Activists organized the flotilla as part of a growing international effort to provide support to the island nation. The aid aims to alleviate the hardship caused by the ongoing fuel crisis.

In March 2026, Cuba experienced a nationwide collapse of its power grid, resulting in widespread blackouts. The crisis stems from a lack of oil shipments to the country since early January. The disruption in oil supply is attributed to an ongoing oil blockade imposed by the United States. The lack of fuel has crippled Cuba's ability to generate electricity, leading to the nationwide power outage. The situation highlights the impact of the US blockade on Cuba's energy infrastructure.

Cuba's national electrical grid has collapsed, leaving approximately 10 million people without power. The state grid operator, UNE, is investigating the cause of the blackout, which follows a series of widespread outages and recent protests. The collapse occurs amidst a US-imposed oil blockade, implemented after the US captured Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro in January, that has significantly limited Cuba's oil imports. Venezuela, formerly Cuba's main oil supplier, has not sent fuel this year, and other imports have been minimal. Cuba has stated it is in talks with the US to resolve the crisis, while the US president has claimed Cuba is nearing collapse.

Millions in Cuba are without power after the national electric grid collapsed on Monday, the latest in a series of widespread outages. Cuba's power operator, UNE, is working to restore electricity across the island nation of approximately 10 million people. The blackouts are attributed to chronic fuel shortages, exacerbated by a recent US blockade on oil shipments. Cuba relies heavily on imported fuel, and shipments from Venezuela have been halted since the US captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January. President Trump has threatened tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba and has made statements about potentially "taking" or "freeing" the country. The power outages and high food prices have triggered protests, including a recent storming of a Communist Party building.

Following a nationwide power outage in Cuba affecting 10 million people, then-US President Donald Trump suggested potential intervention in the country. Trump's remarks, which included the phrase "I believe I will have the honour of taking Cuba," drew criticism for their aggressive tone. The comments came as Cubans were already struggling with the blackout's effects, including spoiled food and lack of access to electricity. Trump's administration had been increasing pressure on Cuba, particularly after the attempted abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a Cuban ally. This pressure included imposing tariffs on countries that send oil to Cuba, leading to economic hardship for ordinary Cubans, including limited transportation and suspended airline flights.

Amid widespread blackouts and unrest in Cuba, Senator Marco Rubio stated that U.S. sanctions are linked to political change on the island, citing the Cuban economy's dependence on subsidies and the current leadership's inability to address the crisis. The island nation is facing a severe energy crisis, leaving millions without power and sparking protests. President Trump indicated his administration is actively engaged and suggested potential intervention. A State Department official attributed the crisis to the Cuban regime's incompetence and decades of communist rule, rejecting claims that U.S. sanctions are responsible. A Cuban human rights activist echoed this sentiment, arguing that the crisis reflects a systemic collapse within the regime itself.

In March 2026, as the US increases pressure on Cuba following actions in Iran, China faces a dilemma balancing geopolitical realities and ideological alignment. Analysts predict China's response will be limited to diplomatic opposition and humanitarian aid due to the risk of disrupting global stability. This comes after President Trump stated his intention to "take" Cuba, citing the impact of a US oil squeeze that caused widespread blackouts. The New York Times reported that US officials have also told Havana it should remove President Miguel Diaz-Canel. The US actions represent an escalation in Washington's pressure campaign against Cuba.

In March 2026, the Trump administration announced its goal to remove Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel from power by the end of the year. The announcement continues a long history of US efforts to oust Cuban leaders, spanning 65 years. The Al Jazeera report by Marthe van der Wolf seeks to explain who Diaz-Canel is and the historical context behind Washington's ongoing attempts to overthrow Cuban leadership. The report aims to provide clarity on the motivations and background surrounding the US policy towards Cuba.

In March 2026, U.S. President Trump stated the U.S. would soon take action regarding Cuba. This announcement was made while the U.S. was engaged in military conflict with Iran. The U.S. President and Secretary of State are focused on Cuba, specifically demanding a change in leadership in Havana. The specific nature and timing of the planned U.S. action towards Cuba were not detailed in the report. The reasons behind the demand for leadership change were also not disclosed.

Protesters in Moron, Cuba, attacked a Communist party office early Saturday morning, according to state media reports. The demonstration, initially a peaceful rally against power outages and food shortages, escalated into violence. Videos circulating on social media showed people throwing rocks and setting fires at the building while chanting for "liberty," though Reuters could not independently verify the footage. The unrest is attributed to worsening blackouts, exacerbated by the US oil blockade against Cuba. The US has tightened sanctions on Cuba, particularly after capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Cuba's main benefactor, cutting off Venezuelan oil shipments and threatening tariffs on countries selling oil to Cuba, further straining the Cuban economy.

Five people were arrested in Moron, Cuba, after a protest at a local Communist party office escalated into vandalism. Protesters ransacked the office, setting fire to computers and furniture in the street, and also damaged a pharmacy and another shop. The incident follows growing discontent in Cuba due to shortages of food, medicine, and frequent power outages, with nightly protests spreading across the country. These issues are exacerbated by a US oil blockade, which Cuba's president blames for the lack of petroleum shipments in the past three months. The US president has openly expressed his desire for regime change in Cuba and has placed the island under an oil blockade, citing it as an "extraordinary threat" to the US.

The Cuban government announced it will release 51 prisoners in the coming days as a gesture of goodwill and due to its close relationship with the Vatican. The government stated those being released have served a significant portion of their sentences and maintained good conduct. This announcement precedes a rare press conference by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel to address national and international issues. Cuba has released thousands of prisoners in recent years, including over 500 in early 2025 following talks with the Vatican, one of whom was prominent dissident José Daniel Ferrer. It is currently unknown if any of those being released are considered political prisoners, of which Prisoners Defenders estimates there are over 1,200 in Cuba.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced that Cuba and the United States have engaged in discussions aimed at resolving bilateral differences amid escalating threats from the Trump administration. These talks seek solutions through dialogue as Cuba faces a severe blockade, particularly impacting oil shipments. According to Diaz-Canel, no petroleum has arrived in Cuba in three months due to the US energy blockade, exacerbated by the disruption of Venezuelan shipments following US actions in South America. The situation has led to widespread power outages and significant disruptions in Cuba, affecting communications, education, transportation, and healthcare. The goal of the talks is to determine the willingness of both countries to take actions benefiting their respective populations.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed that Cuban officials have engaged in talks with the U.S. government to address the U.S. blockade against Cuba. The discussions aim to find solutions to bilateral differences through dialogue, conducted with respect for both nations' sovereignty. These talks occurred amid a severe economic crisis in Cuba, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and an oil blockade imposed by the Trump administration. The announcement follows a previous warning from Díaz-Canel about potential "extreme measures" due to the economic situation. U.S. officials also held talks with Raúl Castro's grandson, Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, during a Caricom meeting in St. Kitts and Nevis last month.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel announced Friday that Cuba and the U.S. recently held talks aimed at resolving bilateral differences. This marks the first confirmation from Cuba regarding such discussions. Díaz-Canel stated that international factors facilitated the exchanges, though he didn't elaborate on specifics. The announcement comes as Cuba faces a severe energy crisis, with no petroleum shipments arriving in the last three months, which Díaz-Canel attributed to a U.S. energy blockade. The energy shortage has impacted various sectors, including communications, education, and healthcare, leading to power plant shutdowns and postponed surgeries.

Rare anti-government protests have erupted in Cuba, fueled by food and energy shortages exacerbated by US restrictions. On Saturday, March 14, 2026, a local communist party office in Moron was set on fire, leading to the arrest of five people for vandalism. The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into property damage, with demonstrators reportedly shouting for "liberty." While some reports suggest gunfire and injuries, state media denies these claims. The unrest reflects growing public frustration with shortages, leading to demonstrations like banging pots and pans and student sit-ins. Protests are rare in Cuba due to the threat of government repression.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirmed that Cuba and the United States have recently engaged in talks to address bilateral differences. This marks the first confirmation of such discussions. Diaz-Canel attributed Cuba's current energy crisis to a US energy blockade, stating that no petroleum shipments have arrived in the past three months. A recent blackout in western Cuba left millions without power, exacerbating the situation. The lack of power has impacted communications, education, transport, and healthcare, leading to the postponement of numerous surgeries. While Cuba produces 40% of its petroleum, it has been insufficient to meet the country's energy demands.

A widespread blackout plunged millions of Cubans into darkness on Wednesday, affecting a large area from Camaguey to Havana. The outage was triggered by a breakdown at the Antonio Guiteras power plant. This is the second major blackout in the western region in three months, exacerbating existing fuel shortages and straining the country's infrastructure. Cuba has faced increasing power cuts due to fuel shortages, partly attributed to U.S. sanctions and the disruption of oil shipments from Venezuela since January. The fuel crisis has also led to Air France suspending flights to Havana, further impacting international tourism. The blackouts are disrupting essential services, including hospitals and public transportation.

On March 5, 2026, a large-scale power outage impacted approximately two-thirds of Cuba, including Havana. The blackout left millions without electricity. Residents reported that the outage exacerbated an existing energy crisis. The ongoing energy crisis is reportedly worsened by a US pressure campaign.

A widespread power outage struck western Cuba on Wednesday, impacting millions from Camagüey to Pinar del Río, including Havana. The blackout, caused by a shutdown at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, is the latest in a series of energy crises exacerbated by U.S. sanctions imposed during the Trump administration. Cuba's aging infrastructure and fuel shortages, worsened by the halt of Venezuelan oil exports in January, contribute to the instability. While some businesses and residents utilize solar panels and generators, the government anticipates at least three days to fully restore power. The U.S. Embassy in Cuba warns of prolonged outages affecting essential services and advises residents to conserve resources. Despite the energy crisis, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has stated his administration will not negotiate with Washington for a new agreement.

On Wednesday, March 5, 2026, Cuba experienced a widespread power outage affecting two-thirds of the country, including Havana. The state electric utility, UNE, attributed the blackout to a fault at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, impacting electricity supply from Pinar del Rio to Las Tunas. The outage briefly interrupted Cuban state TV broadcasts. This occurred amidst already existing issues with Cuba's electricity generation system, where daily power outages are common due to fuel shortages. Simultaneously, Ecuador expelled Cuba's Ambassador Basilio Gutierrez and his diplomatic staff from Quito, further straining relations between the two nations. The article suggests the United States' attempts to curtail oil shipments to Cuba may be exacerbating the country's energy crisis.

Following a nationwide blackout in Cuba, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested the country is next on his administration's agenda, hinting at potential action after dealing with Iran. Trump stated that change in Cuba is imminent and that Cuban authorities are eager to negotiate a deal. He mentioned involving Marco Rubio in the process and suggested potential face-to-face negotiations. Cuba is currently facing a fuel crisis due to the loss of its main crude oil source in Venezuela, exacerbated by pressure from the Trump administration on other energy partners. The crisis has led to widespread issues, including garbage piling up in the streets and residents resorting to burning trash and cooking with firewood.

US President Donald Trump stated that Cuba is likely to "fall pretty soon" during an interview with CNN. He made this comment a day after mentioning a potential project for Cuba after the war against Iran. Trump's comments were seen as a renewed threat to the communist-ruled island, which has been facing a US energy blockade. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will reportedly be Trump's point man on Cuba, given his son's background as a Cuban immigrant and desire for regime change in Havana. The US and Israel recently launched attacks on Iran that killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading some to speculate that Cuba could be next on Trump's list of foreign interventions.

The Cuban government announced a fifth death resulting from a February 26th shootout with a Florida-flagged speedboat near Cayo Falcones. Cuban authorities claim the boat, carrying 10 people, opened fire on Cuban soldiers. Cuba alleges the passengers were armed Cuban-Americans intending to infiltrate the island and commit acts of terrorism. Authorities have filed terrorism charges against six suspects and presented evidence including weapons and ammunition allegedly found on the boat. The Cuban Interior Ministry stated that investigations are ongoing and suggest the involvement of other individuals based in the United States. The remaining injured detainees are reportedly receiving specialized medical care.

Cuban prosecutors have charged six Cuban exiles with terrorism following a deadly speedboat attack. The defendants, based in the United States, are accused of traveling to Cuba with the intent to destabilize the Communist government. The incident involved a US-flagged speedboat and a shootout with the Cuban coast guard. The Cuban government alleges the individuals were armed and planned to attack military units on the island. The charges stem from an event that occurred last week.

Cuban authorities reported that a speedboat carrying 10 men from the United States attempted to destabilize the Cuban government. The incident occurred this week when the boat was intercepted by Cuban border agents, resulting in a shootout that killed four of the men. The six surviving crew members are receiving medical treatment, as is at least one Cuban officer. According to CBS News, at least one of the deceased was a U.S. citizen. Cuban officials defended their response, stating the speedboat passengers initiated the gunfire. An associate of one of the deceased men claimed he sought to overthrow the Cuban government, amidst heightened tensions between Cuba and the U.S.

According to the Cuban government, a boat carrying ten armed individuals opened fire on Cuban soldiers in Cuban waters on Wednesday. Cuban authorities allege the individuals were Cuban citizens residing in the United States. The Cuban government claims the group's intention was to infiltrate the island and commit acts of terrorism. The incident resulted in four deaths. The Cuban government has not released further details about the event or the identities of those involved. The investigation is ongoing.

Cuban border guards shot and killed four people aboard a US-registered speedboat in Cuban waters on Wednesday. According to Cuba's government, the incident occurred near Cayo Falcones after the speedboat's occupants allegedly opened fire on a Cuban coast guard vessel that approached them for identification, wounding the commander. Six other passengers on the speedboat were wounded and received medical assistance. The nationalities and purpose of those on board the Florida-registered vessel are currently unknown, and Cuba has launched an investigation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the US is gathering facts and will make determinations based on its findings. The incident occurs amid heightened tensions between the US and Cuba.

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump stated that the United States is in discussions with the Cuban government regarding a potential "friendly takeover" of Cuba. This statement comes as Cuba faces a significant energy crisis. The energy shortage is reportedly a consequence of a US-imposed fuel blockade. The discussions and potential takeover are occurring in the context of this existing pressure on Cuba's energy resources. The US government has not released further details about the nature of these talks or the specific conditions under which a takeover might occur.

In February 2026, President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. is in talks with Cuba, suggesting a possible "friendly takeover" of the island nation. Speaking to reporters in Washington, D.C., Trump mentioned that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is engaged in high-level discussions with Cuban leaders. Trump characterized Cuba as a "failed nation" seeking U.S. assistance, citing their current economic struggles. These remarks followed a recent incident where a boat carrying armed Cubans from the U.S. allegedly opened fire on Cuban soldiers off the island's coast, resulting in casualties on both sides. The White House did not provide further clarification on the President's comments.

Donald Trump suggested the possibility of a "friendly takeover" of Cuba amid heightened tensions between the US and Cuba. Trump stated that the Cuban government is in trouble and engaging in discussions with the US. These comments follow reports of US officials meeting with Raúl Castro's grandson and increased pressure on Cuba after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The US has been tightening its grip on Cuba by imposing an oil blockade on the island, strangling what was left of the island’s already parlous economy. Trump alluded to the Cuban exile community in the US, suggesting a takeover of the island could be “something good ... very positive” for them. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has previously stated that any discussions must respect Cuba's sovereignty and independence.

Cuban border guards killed four gunmen and wounded six others on a US-registered speedboat off the coast of Villa Clara province on Tuesday. According to the Cuban Interior Ministry, one border guard was injured during the exchange of gunfire. The nationality of the gunmen is currently unspecified. The incident occurred in a militarized area commonly used for both Cuban migration to the US and people smuggling. This clash occurs amidst heightened tensions between the US and Cuba, exacerbated by an ongoing oil embargo and humanitarian crisis. The Cuban government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its territorial waters and national sovereignty. The incident evokes memories of past conflicts, including the 1996 downing of Brothers to the Rescue planes, which further strained US-Cuban relations.

A U.S. official confirmed that at least one American citizen was killed and another injured when Cuban border guards intercepted a speedboat near Cuba's northern coast on Wednesday. The incident resulted in four deaths and six injuries. Cuban authorities allege the individuals on the Florida-registered boat were planning a terrorist infiltration and initiated the gunfire. The boat's owner claims it was stolen. Cuban officials initially stated all ten individuals were Cuban nationals residing in the U.S., but later identified an eleventh person arrested who confessed to involvement in the alleged plot. Cuban authorities recovered weapons and tactical gear from the speedboat and stated that most of those involved had prior criminal records.

A speedboat incident in Cuba has sparked controversy due to conflicting accounts. The Cuban government alleges an armed raid occurred on its territory. However, this version of events is being challenged after one of the individuals identified as being involved in the supposed attack appeared in Miami. The presence of this man in Miami raises doubts about the Cuban government's narrative of the incident. The details surrounding the event, including the motivations and exact sequence of events, remain unclear. The discrepancy between the Cuban government's claims and the man's location has led to increased scrutiny and unanswered questions.