Country: Cuba Sources: UN Country Team in Cuba, UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Please refer to the attached files. Since January 2026, Cuba has faced a severe reduction in fuel availability, leading to cascading adverse impacts on essential services and on the humanitarian response for populations affected by Hurricane Melissa. The significant decrease in energy availability and in electricity supply hours is affecting all sectors in a cross-cutting manner, including the operations of the United Nations system and its partners. External measures affecting Cuba, including unilateral sanctions and other restrictions, have reduced the supply of oil and its derivatives. On January 29, 2026, the United States Government issued an Executive Order further restricting the supply of oil or fuel from third countries to Cuba. As of the close of this plan, according to Cuban authorities, no fuel imports have been recorded since December 13. This disruption has triggered a severe energy shock, characterized by a critical fuel shortage affecting electricity generation, transportation, and essential logistics across the country. Widespread blackouts and fuel rationing measures have been reported, with electricity shortages lasting several hours a day in some areas. The national energy system is under sustained pressure, significantly affecting basic services, including safe water, health, sanitation, education, and food. Furthermore, fuel shortages are limiting the operational capacity of the United Nations system and its humanitarian partners to implement the response and deliver assistance, including supplies already in the country. Dozens of containers with humanitarian aid remain in storage, awaiting transport to hurricane-affected areas.
Related Articles
Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.