From the heart of Havana, Spanish lawmaker Javier Sánchez Serna, who serves as the regional coordinator for the Podemos party in Murcia, declared on Saturday that Cuba's ongoing energy crisis is the result of U.S. government restrictions. He emphasized that the island simply needs the ability to purchase oil without hurdles.
In a video shared on the social media platform X, Sánchez Serna explained that he has been engaging with locals in the capital to better understand the challenges they face.
"Cuba is not asking for handouts; it just wants to buy oil with its own resources," stated Sánchez, who is part of the Nuestra América Convoy to Cuba. This international initiative gathers leftist activists and politicians in support of the Cuban government.
The lawmaker pointed out that the country has gone three months without receiving fuel, and is currently able to meet only about 40% of its energy needs. This, he argued, accounts for the extended power outages and economic hardships.
He also criticized the European Union and Spain for not standing up to Washington or aiding Cuba with the supply of oil, batteries, or solar panels.
"It's quite disappointing that neither Europe nor Spain dares to challenge the fascist in the White House," he remarked, describing the situation as a "silent war" against the Caribbean nation.
The Energy Crisis Intensifies
These comments from the Podemos leader come amid a severe energy crisis in Cuba, characterized by long-lasting blackouts and fuel shortages that disrupt daily life for its citizens.
Historically, Venezuela has been a crucial oil supplier for Cuba. A report from the Miranda Center for Democracy estimated that Caracas provided around $63.8 billion worth of oil subsidies, investment, and financial relief under cooperation agreements with Havana since the early 2000s.
According to the report, the cornerstone of this aid was the subsidized oil shipments from Venezuela, at times exceeding 100,000 barrels a day, which sustained Cuba's energy system for years.
However, El Nuevo Herald's investigation at the end of January revealed that between late 2024 and 2025, Cuba received around 70,000 barrels per day of Venezuelan crude and derivatives but allegedly resold approximately 40,000 barrels daily—about 60%—to Asian markets.
Recent political shifts, including the January 3rd capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, have drastically reduced Venezuela's oil production, leaving Cuba without one of its critical energy lifelines and worsening the existing electrical system crisis.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Challenges
What is the primary cause of Cuba's current energy crisis?
The crisis is mainly attributed to U.S. restrictions that hinder Cuba's ability to purchase oil, as well as reduced oil deliveries from Venezuela.
How has Venezuela historically supported Cuba's energy needs?
Venezuela has historically subsidized Cuba's oil supply, providing up to 100,000 barrels a day at peak times, which was essential for Cuba's energy infrastructure.
What recent developments have affected Venezuela's oil supply to Cuba?
The political changes in Venezuela, particularly after the capture of Nicolás Maduro, have reduced oil production, impacting Cuba's energy imports.