Cuba says oil reserves have 'run out' as blackouts, fuel shortages spark protests

Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel urged Washington to end its embargo instead of offering aid as the country's power blackouts worsened on Thursday, with the country's energy minister saying that oil reserves sent by Russia had "run out". Dozens of Cubans took to the streets outside of Havana on Wednesday night to protest the crippling blackouts and fuel shortages.

Issued on: 14/05/2026 - 15:28

Modified: 14/05/2026 - 22:46

President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Thursday the United States should lift its blockade on Cuba rather than offer aid as the country endures worsening power cuts.

Cuba's energy crisis has deepened since January when the United States imposed an oil blockade on the communist-run island of 9.6 million people.