Life in Cuba has devolved into a relentless struggle for the essentials: food, water, and electricity. Extended power outages lasting over 12 hours, halted transportation, and skyrocketing prices are now part and parcel of everyday life on an island entrenched in a severe crisis.
A comprehensive report from Reuters highlights the deteriorating conditions experienced by Cubans across various sectors—from street vendors to government workers and taxi drivers—who describe a reality of increasing hardship.
Accounts gathered around Havana paint a picture of a nation in survival mode, with no relief in sight. "The situation in Cuba is unsustainable," stated Yaite Verdecia, a housewife from Havana, emphasizing that "no salary is enough."
The report notes that the fuel shortage has crippled public services, spiked transportation costs, and exacerbated blackouts that now persist for most of the day. Even Havana, which until recently fared better than rural areas during power cuts, has succumbed to the energy crisis.
With halted oil shipments from Venezuela and Mexico, alongside sanctions from former President Donald Trump against countries supplying oil to the regime, the capital has also plunged into darkness.
Endless queues to purchase bread, gasoline, or basic food items have become a regular occurrence. "You have to pay the price or stay home," said Daylan Pérez, a young worker from Old Havana.
Many transport operators have ceased operations due to a lack of fuel, while those still running charge in dollars, a currency out of reach for most Cubans. "Previously, you could buy gasoline with pesos once a month, but not anymore," a resident explained to the British agency.
The blackouts are also affecting those who attempted to adapt with electric vehicles. "I thought I had found the solution, but now I can only charge my taxi four hours a day," said Alexander Leyet, a Havana driver quoted by Reuters.
The worsening living conditions have forced Cubans to focus solely on survival. "We're drowning. But there's nothing we can do," confessed Aimee Milanes, a young woman from Reparto Eléctrico.
In neighborhoods like Guanabacoa or Marianao, power outages have led to traffic accidents due to non-functioning traffic lights and increased insecurity. "Sometimes the outages last more than 12 hours," lamented Raysa Lemu, a resident of one of the hardest-hit areas.
While the Cuban government declares an "international emergency" and blames Washington for the crisis, the people are left without answers. Amid darkness, hunger, and despair, more Cubans echo the same sentiment: "We just want to survive."
The Crisis in Cuba: Key Questions Answered
What are the main challenges Cubans are facing daily?
Cubans are grappling with severe shortages of food, water, and electricity, alongside prolonged power outages and inflated prices, making daily survival a daunting task.
How has the energy crisis affected transportation in Cuba?
The energy crisis has led to a lack of fuel, halting many transportation services. Those still operating often charge in dollars, a currency scarce for most Cubans, worsening the situation.
What is the Cuban government's stance on the ongoing crisis?
The Cuban government blames the crisis on international factors, particularly the sanctions imposed by the United States, and has declared an "international emergency," yet offers no tangible solutions to its citizens.