Cuba faces record-long power outages amid energy crisis and protests

Record-breaking electricity outages have swept Cuba, with the main plant in Matanzas reporting more than 90 hours without power and the capital Havana experiencing up to 75 hours of blackout. Independent Cuban media estimate that around 70% of the island is without electricity, prompting dozens of large demonstrations demanding restoration of service.

The disruptions stem from ongoing malfunctions at the Antonio Guiteras power station, which officials say requires a comprehensive overhaul that could halt operations for at least six months. The power shortage is compounded by a broader oil deficit linked to U.S. sanctions on Venezuela and recent financial sanctions imposed on Cuban officials and institutions, intensifying the island's economic and energy crisis.

U.S. officials have condemned the Cuban regime, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeling the country a "global capital of leftist terrorism" and President Donald Trump promising future action after concluding matters in Iran. The combination of infrastructure failures, sanctions, and public unrest underscores a deepening crisis on the island.