Cuba Accuses U.S. of War-Like Actions Amid Power Crisis
On Tuesday, Cuba’s foreign minister condemned the United States, claiming that the restrictions on fuel shipments amounted to an “act of war.” In response, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Walz, firmly placed the blame on Cuba’s communist government for its ongoing issues, including widespread blackouts, oppression, and economic decline.
This exchange happened at the United Nations General Assembly just a day after the Cuban national power grid collapsed, leaving nearly 10 million people without electricity. Reports indicate this marks the third significant blackout in Cuba this year, and the eighth since October 2025.
By Tuesday morning, Cuban authorities had managed to restore power to some central regions and about a third of Havana, but many areas still experienced power outages or unstable service.
Power Outage Continues Amid Criticism
In his address, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez claimed that the Trump administration had waged a “multidimensional and unconventional war” against Cuba, becoming “more brutal and ruthless” over recent months. He labeled the U.S. efforts to limit fuel supplies as akin to a naval blockade—an act of war.
Walz rejected these accusations, stating firmly, “There is no naval blockade, there are no U.S. Navy warships surrounding the island.” He called the claims “fake” and reiterated that the real restrictions were those imposed by the Cuban government on its own citizens.
The ambassador described the severe limitations faced by Cubans and emphasized that the true embargo has been enacted by their own leadership, stifling liberties, business opportunities, and basic human rights.
Walz criticized the Cuban government for prioritizing its own power and propaganda while families struggle with food shortages and power losses, especially in hospitals.
“There’s a pressing need for change,” he asserted, urging the Cuban leadership to “keep the lights on for its people.” He also brought attention to the anniversary of protests from July 11, 2021, when thousands of Cubans demanded more freedoms during ongoing shortages.
While he spoke, members of the Cuban delegation interrupted, prompting Walz to assert, “This is not Havana; we will be heard, and we will not be silenced like your people.” He highlighted the plight of several imprisoned Cuban artists and activists as a demonstration of the regime’s oppressive tactics.
Walz also mentioned Cuba’s military-run conglomerate, GAESA, which he claims controls a significant portion of the country’s economy. Though estimates of GAESA’s influence vary, he stated it has assets valued at around $18 billion, a figure disputed by Cuban officials.
Despite claims of a blockade, Walz pointed to recent humanitarian aid arriving from various countries, including China and Russia, as evidence that support exists. He claimed the U.S. has also contributed over $100 million in aid this year.
“Blaming the United States appears to be the only plan left for Havana,” he concluded regarding Cuba’s actions at the General Assembly.
Calls for Dialogue and Change
Before a more extensive discussion, U.S. Representative Geoffrey Bartos called for a vote against reopening the agenda item and argued that funds used for the meeting could be better spent on humanitarian aid. He lamented, “Cuba is once again in the dark,” and urged the regime to restore power to its citizens.
As he spoke, members of the Cuban delegation interrupted once more, which he met with sarcasm, suggesting they were only making their case less credible.
Bartos criticized the Cuban government’s focus on propaganda over genuine solutions, pointing to numerous political prisoners. Various organizations report differing numbers, but there’s widespread acknowledgment of many held for political reasons, which Cuba denies.
“This is the real Cuban embargo,” Bartos stated, emphasizing the restrictions set by the regime on freedoms and rights.
Rodriguez, meanwhile, accused the U.S. delegation of spreading “well-worn lies,” asserting that their focus on U.S. policy detracted from discussing the actual impact of the U.S. actions on Cuban citizens.
Cuba’s electricity crisis stems from a combination of significant fuel shortages and an aging power infrastructure, which has struggled to meet the island’s demands. The Cuban government attributes many problems to U.S. sanctions, while Washington points to failed communist policies and corruption as root causes.
