Elba Rosa Pérez Montoya, the Cuban Ambassador to Bolivia and former head of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment (CITMA), has reiterated that Cuba remains steadfast in maintaining its political system, even as the island grapples with a severe energy crisis.
Speaking during a cultural event in La Paz, Pérez Montoya described the recent fuel supply restrictions to Cuba as "a dangerous and deeply inhumane escalation," affecting essential services such as hospitals, public transportation, food production, and electricity generation, according to a report by the Bolivian broadcaster ERBOL.
The ambassador attributed these challenges to the U.S. embargo, labeling it an "economic strangulation" strategy aimed at exerting political pressure on the island nation. She emphasized, "This is not merely a political disagreement; it is a mechanism designed to undermine our nation's sovereign will," while warning of potential prolonged blackouts and increased social tensions.
Despite daily power outages affecting millions and a failing power grid, Pérez Montoya made it clear that Havana will not compromise politically. "Cuba will continue to defend its right to determine its own future without external pressures," she asserted, emphasizing that the nation will not abandon its sovereignty or its chosen path.
Pérez Montoya took on the role of ambassador in Bolivia in November 2024, presenting her credentials to then-President Luis Arce, amid already alarming signs of economic and energy challenges in Cuba.
While the official narrative focuses on external "blockades," within Cuba, power cuts, fuel shortages, and halted transportation continue to characterize the daily lives of its citizens, who face growing uncertainty.
Cuba's Energy Crisis and Political Stance
What impact do fuel restrictions have on Cuba?
Fuel restrictions in Cuba have severely impacted essential services, including hospitals, public transport, food production, and electricity generation, leading to daily power outages and increased social tensions.
How does Cuba view the U.S. embargo?
Cuba views the U.S. embargo as an "economic strangulation" strategy aimed at pressuring the country politically, which they claim undermines their sovereign will and exacerbates the current crisis.
Will Cuba change its political model in response to the crisis?
Cuba has made it clear that it will not make political concessions or abandon its sovereignty and political model, despite the ongoing crisis and external pressures.