Cuba's fuel and electricity shortages cripple Catholic ministries

Severe fuel, electricity and food shortages in Cuba, amplified by U.S. sanctions, are hampering the work of Catholic religious orders. Sisters in Havana report that intermittent power has forced the suspension of host‑making for parishes and limited the care they provide for children and the elderly. Bishop Arturo González of the Cuban bishops’ conference warned that the lack of food, water, medicine and reliable energy marks the island’s "saddest moment" and has already driven some religious communities to leave the country.

The shortages stem from a tightening of U.S. pressure, including recent blocking of oil supplies and threats of military action, as part of broader attempts to compel economic and political reforms in the communist state. While the government has pledged a reform plan, relief for the basic necessities remains uncertain, leaving the Catholic Church and the wider population to endure daily hardship.