This week, the Union of Young Communists of Cuba (UJC) released a video on Facebook attributing the ongoing power outages—lasting over 15 and 24 hours daily—fuel shortages, and university closures solely to three measures imposed by the Trump administration. The Cuban audience, however, was quick to respond critically in the comments.
In the video, a young influencer associated with the Communist Party's youth wing points to the executive order from January 29, 2026, which threatens tariffs on countries selling oil to Cuba; the May 1, 2026 order extending secondary sanctions to foreign companies doing business with the island; and the Treasury Department sanctions from May 7 targeting GAESA and other military-run entities in Cuba. The video ends with the rhetorical question, "Who does the U.S. government think it is to punish our people?"
Cubans Challenge the Official Narrative
Cubans quickly dismantled the official narrative, critiquing the spokesperson of this propaganda.
James Ventura's comment struck a chord: "It’s no coincidence that GAESA has millions and isn't using it for the people's well-being, investing instead in empty hotels and neglecting prioritized sectors. It's no accident you're so indoctrinated."
Jonathan Vallejo López highlighted the chronological inconsistency in the official argument: "Maduro was taken on January 3, before that, they were gifting oil to the regime, and blackouts were just as bad back then." Venezuela had halted oil shipments since November 2025, months before Trump signed any executive orders.
Voices of Criticism and Proposals for Change
Ernesto Almaguer Díaz criticized the regime's priorities: "It’s not coincidental that they built the K Tower in Vedado, spending over $200 million instead of fixing a thermoelectric plant. Just as it’s not coincidental that those who tell you to endure hunger weigh over 300 pounds and don't know what a blackout is firsthand." The Tower K is a 42-story hotel controlled by GAESA, the military conglomerate that has invested $24.2 billion in tourism over 15 years, compared to just $1.75 billion in public health.
Kevin Albornoz Velasquez went beyond criticism, offering a solution: "The solution is simple. Hold free elections with multiparty systems, free political prisoners, dissolve the PCC. With these three actions, which can be done in less than a week, Cuba will be free and prosperous again."
The Stark Reality Behind UJC's Propaganda
The UJC’s propaganda faces a stark reality that even the regime cannot hide. Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy admitted last Wednesday that Cuba "has absolutely no fuel, no diesel, only accompanying gas," and that in April, only one fuel ship arrived out of the eight needed monthly. The record blackouts of 2026 were noted last Wednesday, with a maximum impact of 2,113 MW.
The credibility of the UJC's campaign is further undermined by overwhelming demographic realities: 97.61% of Cuban youths aged 18 to 30 disapprove of the government's performance, 78% of residents wish to emigrate, and in 2024, the island recorded 71,374 births against 130,645 deaths, almost double the deaths compared to births. These are the same young people whom the UJC urges to "resist" as they flee en masse or study by candlelight, as acknowledged in the organization's own video.
Understanding the Cuban Crisis and UJC's Role
What are the main criticisms against the UJC's narrative on blackouts?
Critics argue that the UJC's narrative ignores the regime's mismanagement and misplaced priorities, such as investing in tourism over essential infrastructure, which contributes to the ongoing blackouts.
How have Cuban citizens responded to the UJC's claims?
Cuban citizens have responded by highlighting the inconsistencies in the UJC's claims and criticizing the regime for its lack of accountability and transparency in addressing the country's energy crisis.
What are the proposed solutions to Cuba's current problems?
Proposed solutions include holding free elections, allowing multiparty systems, freeing political prisoners, and dissolving the PCC to foster a more democratic and prosperous Cuba.