Donald Trump confidently foretold the impending collapse of another government, attributing it to his actions. He indicated that Cuba was teetering on the brink due to the cessation of various resources, including oil and financial support from Venezuela. Trump asserted that the United States was engaged with the Cuban government amid escalating turmoil on the island, marked by widespread power outages plunging millions into darkness.

The western region of Cuba experienced a significant blackout following power disruptions, leaving residents in Havana and beyond without electricity as the nation grappled with depleting oil reserves. This blackout was the second to affect the western part of Cuba in recent months, with a previous massive power outage occurring in December due to a collapse in the national grid.

Trump insinuated that the deteriorating situation in Cuba was partially a consequence of U.S. pressure, particularly the cutoff of Venezuelan oil supplies that previously supported the island’s power grid. He proudly claimed responsibility for the island’s struggles, highlighting his intervention as a key factor in the ongoing crisis.

Cuba primarily relies on large thermoelectric plants such as Antonio Guiteras, which necessitate crude oil for operation. While the country produces some of the required crude oil, it relies on imports due to challenges posed by U.S. sanctions. Furthermore, Cuba has traditionally obtained fuel from allies like Venezuela and Russia at more affordable rates.

In response to these challenges, the Cuban government recently implemented stringent fuel-saving measures and cautioned about the limited availability of jet fuel at several airports. Even before the disruption in Venezuelan oil supplies, Cuba was grappling with an aging electric grid, energy generation deficits, and interruptions in fuel provision.