Trending Now - Cuba Experiences Second Nationwide Blackout in a Week
WHO:
Cuba’s Ministry of Energy
President Trump
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel
Nicolás Maduro, former President of Venezuela
WHAT:
Cuba experienced its second nationwide blackout in less than a week, affecting more than 10 million people.
The Ministry of Energy announced a "total disconnection of the National Electric System."
The state-owned electric company reported a power deficit of 1.704 megawatts during peak hours on March 21st, 2026.
Humanitarian organizations began delivering aid to Cuba, including solar panels, food, and medicine.
The blackout on March 21st, 2026, was the fourth major blackout in Cuba over the past four months.
Trump stated he believed he would soon have "the honor of taking Cuba" and mentioned, "I think I can do anything I want with it."
The Cuban government denied a request from the U.S. embassy in Havana to import fuel for generators.
WHERE:
Cuba
U.S. embassy in Havana, Cuba
WHEN:
The blackout occurred on March 21st, 2026.
The previous blackout occurred on March 16th, 2026.
Trump made comments regarding Cuba on March 16th, 2026.
The U.S. captured Nicolás Maduro in January 2026.
WHY:
The blackouts are attributed to a lack of fuel caused by the U.S. energy blockade initiated by the Trump administration.
Cuba has been struggling to meet energy demands due to halted oil shipments from Venezuela and Mexico.
HOW:
The Ministry of Energy is implementing protocols for restoration of power.
The U.S. has warned allies that those who provide or sell oil to Cuba could face steep tariffs.
(UPDATED March 22, 2026 01:37 UTC)
Cuba experienced its second nationwide blackout in less than a week on March 21, affecting more than 10 million people, as the Ministry of Energy announced a total disconnection of the National Electric System due to a significant power deficit. Humanitarian organizations have begun delivering aid, including solar panels, food, and medicine, while Trump recently expressed confidence about his influence over Cuba, stating he believes he will soon have "the honor of taking Cuba." Meanwhile, the Cuban government has denied a request from the U.S. embassy in Havana to import fuel for generators, as the country struggles with energy demands amid an ongoing U.S. energy blockade.