Cuba Says It Has Run Out of Oil
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Cuba’s oil reserves have been completely depleted, exacerbating an ongoing energy crisis that has led to widespread and prolonged power outages across the country.
- The crisis stems from aging infrastructure and the cessation of fuel supplies from Venezuela, Cuba’s traditional oil provider, following U.S. sanctions and control over Venezuela’s oil industry.
- Cuban Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy reported that blackouts in Havana now last over 20 hours daily, with electricity restored for only brief periods.
- Secret negotiations between the U.S. and Cuba are underway, focusing on lifting the energy blockade and addressing political and economic issues in Cuba.
- The Cuban government announced a visit by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, highlighting the sensitive nature of ongoing talks.