Cuba faces risk of humanitarian crisis amid fuel shortages

The Cuban government unveiled emergency measures on Friday aimed at confronting a severe energy crisis that has worsened amid tightening U.S. sanctions and sharply reduced fuel supplies.

Deputy Prime Minister Oscar Perez‑Oliva Fraga said the steps are designed to preserve the country's essential functions and basic services while managing limited fuel resources. Under the new plan, state companies will shift to a four‑day work week and restrictions on fuel sales will be enforced to curb consumption. Transportation between provinces will be scaled back and some tourism facilities may temporarily close. Educational institutions will also shorten school days and reduce in‑person attendance requirements at universities.

According to officials, the objective of these changes is to protect critical operations such as food and electricity production while safeguarding activities that generate foreign currency. The measures are intended as short-term emergency responses rather than permanent policy shifts.

Cuba's energy shortages have intensified after its long‑standing economic partner, Venezuela, stopped sending oil this year amid geopolitical disruptions. The United States has further tightened pressure by threatening tariffs on nations that provide fuel to Cuba and cutting off oil imports from Venezuela, actions Havana describes as part of an "energy blockade."

In a press conference aired on local TV on February 5, President Miguel Diaz‑Canel said the Cuban government is willing to engage in respectful talks with the United States but insists on discussions that respect Cuba's sovereignty and reject external interference. He also acknowledged that severe energy shortages are straining public services, from power generation and public transport to healthcare and tourism.

The UN has issued unusually stark warnings regarding the situation. According to UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, attempts by Washington to block oil supplies to Cuba could trigger a humanitarian "collapse," given the country's heavy dependence on imported fuel for electricity, transportation, water supply and healthcare services.

These warnings highlight growing international concern that the fuel crisis may evolve beyond an economic or political issue into a full‑scale humanitarian emergency, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly, hospital patients and those dependent on public services.

(With input from agencies)