Havana: Cuba has announced new emergency steps to protect essential services as fuel shortages worsen following fresh moves by the United States to cut off oil supplies to the island.
The Cuban government said it will prioritise fuel for hospitals, food production, water supply, electricity generation and other critical services. Authorities warned that the country is facing one of its most serious energy shortages in years, forcing strict rationing across transport, industry and public services.
Officials said healthcare facilities, including emergency rooms, maternity wards and cancer treatment centres, will receive priority fuel supplies. Schools for younger children will remain open, while secondary schools and universities may switch partly to online classes to save energy. Public transport services are expected to be reduced, with limited fuel allocated for essential travel.
The crisis has intensified after the United States expanded measures aimed at blocking oil shipments to Cuba. Washington has warned that countries supplying fuel to the island could face economic penalties. Cuban leaders described the move as an energy blockade that is worsening daily life for ordinary people.
Cuba has long depended on oil imports, mainly from Venezuela, but those supplies have fallen sharply in recent years. Mexico has signalled it is exploring ways to send humanitarian assistance to Cuba, while avoiding actions that could trigger U.S. penalties. Mexican officials said any support would focus on humanitarian needs rather than commercial fuel deliveries.
The United States has said it is increasing humanitarian aid to Cuba through non government organisations and religious groups. U.S. officials insist the assistance is meant to support the Cuban people and is separate from political pressure on the government. Cuban authorities have rejected that argument, saying sanctions and aid cannot be separated.
Cuban officials compared the current situation to the Special Period of the 1990s, when the collapse of Soviet support led to widespread shortages and blackouts. In recent months, Cuba has already faced long power cuts, fuel scarcities and economic strain, adding to public frustration.
The government said it will continue to adjust fuel distribution as supplies change, while urging citizens to conserve energy and prepare for further disruptions.