Cuba Restores Power Grid After Major Blackout Amid Energy Crisis

Cuba successfully restored its national power grid on Friday following a severe blackout that affected approximately 65% of the island earlier in the week. Despite the restoration, the country faces an acute energy crisis as oil reserves have been completely depleted. The national electricity company (UNE) confirmed that while the grid is reconnected, scheduled blackouts remain in effect due to the failure of key aging thermoelectric plants. The crisis has triggered public unrest, with residents in Havana and other areas protesting by banging pots and pans. The Cuban government attributes the shortages to the United States' energy blockade, which has been in place since January, while Washington blames poor management by the Cuban regime. Tensions between the two nations remain high under US President Donald Trump's administration, yet diplomatic engagement continues. Notably, high-level talks occurred recently, including a meeting between CIA Director John Ratcliffe and senior Cuban officials in Havana, aimed at easing bilateral tensions amidst the ongoing humanitarian and economic challenges.