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Cuba Faces Island-Wide Blackout Amid Energy Crisis Protests

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

An island-wide blackout hit Cuba on March 16, 2026, affecting 11 million residents.
The government cited a United States energy blockade, worsened by halted Venezuelan oil shipments.
President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez (Cuba) said Cuba has not received oil in over three months.
Cuba relies on solar power and natural gas.
Protests erupted in cities as residents voiced frustration over blackouts and shortages.

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Story summary

An island-wide blackout hit Cuba on March 16, 2026, affecting 11 million residents.
The government cited a United States energy blockade, worsened by halted Venezuelan oil shipments.
President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez (Cuba) said Cuba has not received oil in over three months.
Cuba relies on solar power and natural gas.
Protests erupted in cities as residents voiced frustration over blackouts and shortages.