Cuba runs out of diesel and fuel oil as blackouts worsen

World May 14, 2026

Cuba has run out of diesel and fuel oil, worsening the country’s energy crisis and triggering prolonged blackouts across Havana.

Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O said the national grid is in a “critical” state with no fuel reserves remaining.

“We have absolutely no fuel oil and absolutely no diesel. We have no reserves,” he stated on state-run media.

According to officials, several neighbourhoods in Havana are experiencing power outages lasting up to 22 hours a day amid ongoing shortages of food, medicine, and transportation services.

Cuban authorities blamed the crisis on the ongoing U.S. fuel blockade, which has disrupted oil shipments from key suppliers including Mexico and Venezuela.

The government says it is continuing efforts to secure fuel imports while relying on domestic crude oil, natural gas, and renewable energy to sustain electricity generation.

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