Story perspectives

Cuba Rationing Fuel Amid U.S. Oil Restrictions

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Cuba implements fuel rationing in response to tightened U.S. oil restrictions.
The move aims to protect essential services, including healthcare and education.
Commerce Minister Oscar Perez-Oliva said foreign exchange is needed to sustain basic programs.
Cuba plans to cultivate 200,000 hectares of rice and shift to renewable energy for irrigation.
Education Minister Naima Ariatne said primary schools will remain open and secondary schools will adopt a hybrid model.

History

Historical Context

Following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991, Cuba faced a severe oil crisis, with oil imports plummeting from 13 million tons in 1989 to about 3 million tons by 1993. Under Fidel Castro, the government implemented rationing to maintain essential services. Today, Cuba's ongoing fuel shortages echo these past challenges, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and a need for sustainable agricultural practices, including plans to cultivate 200,000 hectares of rice.

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Story summary

Cuba implements fuel rationing in response to tightened U.S. oil restrictions.
The move aims to protect essential services, including healthcare and education.
Commerce Minister Oscar Perez-Oliva said foreign exchange is needed to sustain basic programs.
Cuba plans to cultivate 200,000 hectares of rice and shift to renewable energy for irrigation.
Education Minister Naima Ariatne said primary schools will remain open and secondary schools will adopt a hybrid model.

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