Reaction from the field
The ongoing fuel crisis in Cuba has reached a critical point, with the island nation experiencing significant disruptions to its power supply due to a blockade imposed by the Trump administration. As of March 2026, Cuba has not received any fuel in three months, leading to three grid collapses within the month alone. The situation has escalated to a humanitarian crisis, with the country’s energy infrastructure severely strained.
Cuba’s energy generation is heavily reliant on oil, with approximately 83% of its power coming from this source. The U.S. has maintained a trade embargo on Cuba since 1962, which has been progressively strengthened over the years. The blockade on fuel supplies was intensified in December 2025, exacerbating an already precarious energy situation. President Miguel Diaz-Canel has voiced the dire circumstances, stating, “The island had not received any fuel in three months,” highlighting the urgency of the crisis.
Despite the blockade, U.S. suppliers have managed to ship approximately 30,000 barrels of fuel to Cuba’s private sector in 2026, which amounts to around 1.27 million gallons. However, this is a mere fraction of the 100,000 barrels per day that Cuba requires to meet its energy needs. Most of the imported fuel consists of diesel, with gasoline making up only about 1% of the total. The limited fuel supply has made it increasingly difficult for the Cuban government to maintain essential services.
Marco Rubio, a prominent U.S. Senator, has emphasized the intention behind the limited fuel exports, stating that they are “entirely designed to put the private sector and individual private Cubans – not affiliated with the government, not affiliated with the military – in a privileged position.” He further warned that any diversion of fuel to the Cuban regime or military would result in the cancellation of export licenses, underscoring the precarious balance between humanitarian aid and political maneuvering.
In 2026, a total of 61 container ships carrying goods, including fuel, have arrived in Cuba, but the overwhelming majority of these shipments have not been able to alleviate the energy crisis. The situation has led to widespread discontent among the Cuban population, who are facing power outages and disruptions to daily life. The government’s inability to secure sufficient fuel supplies has raised concerns about the potential for civil unrest.
Donald Trump has commented on the situation, stating, “Cuba is ‘seeing the end'” as the island grapples with the consequences of the blockade. The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security has issued guidance allowing exports of U.S. gas and petroleum products to eligible Cuban private-sector entities, but the effectiveness of this measure remains to be seen in light of the ongoing challenges.
As the crisis unfolds, the uncertainty surrounding Cuba’s energy future looms large. The potential for further developments in U.S.-Cuba relations may impact the availability of fuel and the overall humanitarian situation on the island. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any imminent changes to the current blockade or additional support for the Cuban people.
