Full Breakdown
Cuba Faces Severe Gasoline Shortages Amid U.S. Oil Siege
2/17/2026, 4:40:52 AM
Fuel Shortages and Government Response
Cuba is experiencing significant gasoline shortages, forcing drivers to wait several months for refueling appointments due to a government-mandated app called "El Ticket." This app, developed by the state-owned software firm XETID, was implemented to manage the long lines at gas stations exacerbated by a U.S. oil siege. As of mid-February 2026, drivers in Havana report being assigned appointment numbers in the thousands, with many receiving appointments weeks or even months away. Jorge Reyes, a 65-year-old retiree, expressed frustration, stating, “I have (appointment) number seven thousand and something.”
The app restricts users to booking appointments at only one gas station at a time, leading to a reliance on social media platforms like WhatsApp for sharing information about less crowded stations. Despite these efforts, the limited availability of appointments—some stations only offering 50 per day—leaves many drivers in a precarious situation. The Cuban government has also ceased selling gasoline at subsidized rates in local currency, now only offering fuel priced in U.S. dollars, which is unaffordable for many citizens earning less than $20 a month.
Economic Implications
The price of gasoline has surged, with a liter costing $1.30 at state-run stations and up to $6 on the black market. Drivers are restricted to purchasing only 20 liters (approximately 5.2 gallons) at a time, which many find insufficient for their needs. Ariel Alonso, a businessman, noted, “This will not last me long,” highlighting the challenges faced by individuals who must reserve fuel for emergencies.
The fuel crisis is compounded by broader economic issues, including intensified blackouts and difficulties in importing oil for power plants and refineries. The situation worsened in January when U.S. President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on any nation supplying oil to Cuba, further straining the island's resources.
International Relations and Criticism
Cuba's President Miguel Díaz-Canel has characterized the U.S. actions as an "energy blockade" and expressed a willingness to negotiate with the U.S. "as equals" while maintaining national sovereignty. The situation has drawn international criticism, with United Nations human rights experts condemning the U.S. oil siege as a unilateral act incompatible with international law.
The crisis has led to significant disruptions, including the cancellation of flights by three Canadian airlines due to fuel shortages and the postponement of major events like a book fair and a cigar trade fair. The tourism sector, while somewhat insulated due to special refueling privileges, is also feeling the impact as long lines form at designated service stations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have (appointment) number seven thousand and something,” — Jorge Reyes, Retiree
- “This will not last me long,” — Ariel Alonso, Businessman
- “no basis on collective security and constitutes a unilateral act that is incompatible with international law.” — United Nations Human Rights Experts
Conclusion
The gasoline shortage in Cuba, driven by a combination of U.S. sanctions and local economic challenges, has created a dire situation for drivers reliant on the government’s app for fuel access. As the crisis deepens, the implications for daily life and the broader economy continue to unfold, highlighting the intersection of domestic policy and international relations.
