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Cuba's fuel supply collapses; blackouts spark nationwide protests

May 14, 2026

Summary

Cuba has reportedly run out of oil, leading to widespread power outages and protests, as the island nation's energy crisis reaches a critical point. The Cuban president urged the US to lift its blockade instead of offering aid, though a $100 million US aid offer is being considered.

How coverage differs

Left outlets highlight the US economic blockade as a direct cause exacerbating a humanitarian crisis, while right outlets report the crisis is attributed to US sanctions, underscoring its severe impact.

  • Left: US blockade fuels Cuba's blackouts and nationwide protests Left-leaning outlets highlight Cuba's severe fuel shortage and resulting blackouts as a direct consequence of the longstanding US economic blockade, which exacerbates the humanitarian crisis. They emphasize the Cuban government's call for the US to lift sanctions rather than offering conditional aid.
  • Center: Cuba urges US to lift blockade amid worsening energy crisis Center outlets report on Cuba's critical energy crisis, detailing the widespread blackouts and protests sparked by the country reportedly running out of oil. They cover President Miguel Díaz-Canel's appeal for the US to lift its blockade while also noting the consideration of a $100 million US aid offer.
  • Right: US sanctions cripple Cuba, leading to complete fuel collapse and protests Right-leaning outlets report on Cuba's complete depletion of fuel and the resulting nationwide blackouts, attributing the crisis to US sanctions. They underscore the severe impact on the island nation and the Cuban president's demand for the US to lift its blockade instead of providing aid.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • ‘Absolutely no fuel’: Cuba hit by blackouts, protests amid power outages
  • Cuba Says It Has Run Out of Oil

Center

  • Cuba president tells US to lift blockade instead of offering aid as energy crisis worsens

Right

  • Cuba has completely run out of fuel due to US sanctions: ‘There’s absolutely nothing’ - Washington Examiner

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