Cuba Energy Crisis Deepens as Donated Russian Oil Runs Out and Blackouts Engulf the Island

Cuba Minister of Energy announced on May 13 that a Russian oil donation from late March has been exhausted, leaving the island beleaguered electrical grid with virtually no reserves. Cubans regularly suffer blackouts lasting most of the day, and small groups have taken to the streets banging pots and pans to protest. The crisis stems from the US attack on oil-rich ally Venezuela in January and the Trump administration declaration that Cuba government presents a threat to US national security, resulting in an oil blockade.