Cuba sees record power outages and surge in street protests

In June 2026 Cuba recorded its highest level of street protests since the observatory began tracking them, tallying 107 on‑site demonstrations – almost double the previous March record. The protests were driven by a deepening energy crisis: a national generation deficit of about 2,100 MW left only 1,100 MW available against a peak demand of 3,200 MW, causing blackouts that lasted 20–24 hours in Havana, over 48 hours in Granma and Santiago de Cuba, and up to 85 consecutive hours in Matanzas. The electric utility UNE reported the worst night‑time deficit on June 25 at 2,208 MW, and a new record of 2,211 MW on the last day of the month. Repairs and maintenance on thermal units are scheduled for July, expected to restore roughly 400 MW, but officials warn further failures are likely.

Authorities responded with 135 documented repression actions and at least 38 arrests, while new surveillance methods were used to identify participants. The crisis has also intensified other hardships, with shortages of water, gas, transport and internet, and a rise in violent crimes, including 27 deaths and 11 femicides linked to social and gender violence.