Story perspectives

Cuba's Fuel Crisis Deepens Amid U.S. Blockade

2/14/2026

Center

Cuba's Fuel Crisis

Cuba faces a severe fuel shortage that disrupts essential services, according to the United Nations.
The United Nations notes that the U.S. campaign to block oil imports exacerbates the crisis.
Mexico and other nations are sending food and emergency supplies to Cuba.
The shortage is affecting food supply and critical services, including water systems and hospitals, in a country of 10 million people.

Right

Latin America Cuts Support

Several Latin American countries are reducing support for Cuba in 2025, aligning with U.S. policies under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Venezuela cut oil supply to Cuba.
Trump announced tariffs on oil sent to Cuba, describing the nation as a “failing nation.”
The United States provided $6 million in humanitarian aid to the Cuban people, bypassing the regime.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) called for regime change in Cuba.

Left

Türk Critiques Sanctions

The United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk criticized U.S. sanctions on Cuba, linking them to severe human rights violations and a crisis.
He urged the United States to lift restrictions that hinder oil deliveries and fuel shortages affecting essential services.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested economic reforms could ease U.S. pressure.
Rubio's comments show a strategy to leverage the crisis for market reforms despite Cuban government resistance.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. imposed an embargo on Cuba in 1960, following Fidel Castro's nationalization of American-owned businesses, leading to a 90% reduction in oil supplies and severe economic hardships. Today, the U.N. reports ongoing crises exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and reduced oil imports from Venezuela, highlighting the enduring humanitarian impact and calls for regime change in Cuba.

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Cuba's Fuel Crisis

Cuba faces a severe fuel shortage that disrupts essential services, according to the United Nations.
The United Nations notes that the U.S. campaign to block oil imports exacerbates the crisis.
Mexico and other nations are sending food and emergency supplies to Cuba.
The shortage is affecting food supply and critical services, including water systems and hospitals, in a country of 10 million people.

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