Cuba Implements Nationwide Suspension of Non-Essential Activities Amid Extensive Blackouts

Cuba has suspended all non-essential teaching and work activities due to a severe energy crisis that has led to widespread blackouts across the island. Only six of the country's 15 oil-fired power plants are operational, exacerbated by a critical fuel shortage, which has forced residents to endure outages lasting from six to 20 hours daily. The government attributes the failing electrical grid to dwindling oil imports from key partners like Venezuela and Russia, compounded by U.S. sanctions that hinder maintenance and fuel procurement. The situation has provoked increasing anxiety among the populace, with over one million Cubans having fled the island in recent years due to deteriorating conditions. Critics have condemned the government for its handling of the crisis, labeling it a failed state unable to provide basic services. Protests have emerged in response to the worsening power situation, reflecting widespread discontent among the citizens.