Cuba Rejects US Aid, Demands End to Blockade Amid Energy Crisis

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has urged the United States to lift its economic blockade rather than provide conditional aid, as Cuba grapples with severe power outages and fuel shortages. The crisis intensified after the US imposed an oil blockade in January 2026, leading to depleted reserves despite limited shipments from Russia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered $100 million in humanitarian aid, stipulating distribution through the Catholic Church to bypass the Cuban government. Díaz-Canel rejected this offer on social media, describing the humanitarian situation as 'coldly calculated and induced' by US policies. He stated that lifting the blockade would resolve the issue faster and asserted Cuba would welcome genuine aid without obstacles. Meanwhile, widespread blackouts affecting up to 65% of the territory have sparked protests in Havana and other regions, with residents demanding electricity. The situation is further complicated by rhetoric from US President Donald Trump, who has suggested potential US intervention. Energy officials confirm oil reserves are exhausted, exacerbating the tense domestic atmosphere and highlighting the deepening diplomatic rift between Washington and Havana.