A deepening energy crisis in Cuba, exacerbated by a U.S. Squeeze on oil supplies, is leaving the island nation facing widespread hardship and disrupting travel for both residents and tourists. Major Canadian airlines have suspended service, and humanitarian aid is struggling to reach those in need, as Havana warns of critical fuel shortages.
The Cuban government warned international airlines on that aviation fuel would no longer be available on the island beginning . This prompted Air Canada, WestJet, and Air Transat to halt flights to Cuba, prioritizing the repatriation of Canadian travelers. WestJet’s decision impacts not only its own operations but also those of Sunwing Vacations, WestJet Vacations, and Vacances WestJet Quebec.
Air Canada cited government advisories regarding the unreliability of the aviation fuel supply as the reason for its cancellation, stating it would operate “ferry flights” to bring approximately 3,000 customers home. Other airlines, including Iberia and Air Europa, are adjusting their routes to include refueling stops in the Dominican Republic to maintain service. American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Aeromexico have indicated they will continue operations, potentially carrying extra fuel for return journeys.
The crisis stems from a deliberate U.S. Strategy to pressure the Cuban government by restricting its access to oil. According to a former Canadian ambassador to Cuba, the Trump administration is attempting to “throttle the island’s economy until the regime collapses,” imposing sanctions on countries that continue to supply Cuba with fuel. This policy builds on decades of strict economic sanctions already in place against the communist-run nation.
The situation is particularly dire for ordinary Cubans. Isben Peralta, a resident of Ciego De Avila, described the conditions as “not humane,” reporting widespread food shortages and frequent power outages. “Some of us who have a little business have a bit to eat, but many, many, many people do not have it. It’s very, very bad,” he said in a recent interview. Even those with some resources, like Peralta who operates a small pizzeria, face energy rationing and limited power access.
The fuel shortage is not limited to aviation. The broader energy crisis is impacting essential services, including healthcare, transportation, and education. The cessation of oil exports from Venezuela, historically a major supplier to Cuba, in early – a consequence of recent geopolitical turmoil following a U.S. Takeover – has further aggravated the situation.
Beyond the immediate impact on Cuban citizens, the crisis is hindering humanitarian efforts. Jennifer Raymer, director of Together for Cuba, an Ontario-based aid agency, expressed frustration at the inability to deliver vital supplies. The organization typically sends 600 large duffle bags containing medicine, surgical supplies, and other medical aid annually, but is now unable to transport them due to the flight cancellations.
“The Cuban people are devastated,” Raymer stated. “They rely on tourists coming down there…and Canadians are known to bring aid.” She highlighted the critical need for the medical supplies, which include prescription medications for conditions like heart disease and diabetes, as well as surgical packs for those awaiting procedures.
Raymer is appealing to airlines to transport the aid on flights returning to Canada to evacuate stranded tourists, but so far, her requests have gone unanswered. “It means that people can’t have surgeries or get the medications that they need,” she explained. “There are surgical packs in there that people are waiting for, and now they’re sitting in London, Ont.”
The situation has drawn criticism from Canadian political figures. NDP interim leader Don Davies called for immediate support for Cuba, condemning what he described as “escalating aggression” from the Trump administration. He accused Prime Minister Mark Carney of remaining “silent” in the face of U.S. Pressure and urged Canada to “stand with the Cuban people” and resist the U.S. Policies.
The unfolding crisis in Cuba underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the human cost of economic and political pressure. As the U.S. Continues its efforts to isolate the Cuban government, the civilian population is bearing the brunt of the consequences, facing shortages of essential goods and services and a deepening humanitarian challenge.
