U.S. ramps up Cuba aid as energy crisis deepens

The United States has announced an additional $6 million in humanitarian aid for Cuba, bringing total assistance since Hurricane Melissa struck the island in October to $9 million. The new relief package will focus on Cuba’s eastern provinces, including Holguín, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo, providing staples like rice, beans, pasta, canned tuna, and solar lamps. U.S. officials said embassy staff will monitor distribution to prevent the government from diverting supplies.

The announcement comes amid worsening energy and fuel shortages. Cuba has faced widespread blackouts, leaving millions without electricity in several provinces, while rising food prices and limited fuel supplies have intensified humanitarian pressures. Officials warn that without sufficient oil imports, hospitals, transport, and essential services could be severely affected. The crisis has escalated following U.S. restrictions on Cuba’s oil shipments and Venezuela’s inability to supply fuel, forcing Cuba to turn to Mexico as its primary energy partner.

Humanitarian situation

Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz‑Canel accused the U.S. of imposing an “energy blockade,” while Mexican officials work to deliver fuel without triggering U.S. tariffs. Díaz‑Canel expressed willingness to engage in dialogue but insisted talks must respect Cuba’s sovereignty. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced serious concern, warning that the humanitarian situation could deteriorate further if oil supplies remain restricted.

As Cuba struggles to balance disaster recovery with an ongoing energy crisis, the international community faces a delicate challenge: providing humanitarian support while navigating complex geopolitical tensions.