Cuba notifies airlines of a one-month suspension on jet fuel supplies due to an escalating energy crisis triggered by disrupted oil shipments from Venezuela.
Aviation Disruptions Begin
An official from a European airline reveals that Cuba informed carriers servicing the island of a refueling ban starting at midnight Monday into Tuesday. Long-haul flights departing Cuba must now make stops elsewhere for fuel, according to statements from Cuban aviation authorities.
Air France confirms its aircraft will refuel at alternative Caribbean locations to maintain operations.
Emergency Measures Implemented
The Cuban government introduces stringent energy-saving protocols, including a four-day workweek for state enterprises and limits on fuel sales. Public transportation between provinces faces reductions in bus and train services, while select tourist sites close temporarily.
Schools adopt shorter days, and universities ease in-person attendance rules to conserve resources.
Roots of the Energy Shortage
Oil deliveries from key ally Venezuela halted following the early January ouster of Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces. President Donald Trump issues an executive order authorizing tariffs on nations supplying oil to Cuba, pressuring Mexico—which has provided shipments since 2023—to cease deliveries.
These shortages strain power plants, risking widespread blackouts across the island. Recurrent power cuts and fuel scarcity have intensified recently.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel expresses openness to U.S. dialogue, provided it avoids coercive tactics, amid accusations that Washington aims to undermine the economy.
