Overview
- Cargo and tanker activity to Cuba has plunged, with Windward data showing just 11 port calls in March and no foreign-originating tankers, reflecting a de facto oil embargo.
- Power was partially restored after a nationwide grid collapse on March 16 left about 10 million people without electricity, but prolonged outages and service disruptions persist.
- Both governments confirm talks, and the Associated Press reports the U.S. is seeking President Miguel Díaz-Canel’s removal as Trump signals imminent action and Rubio calls for new leadership.
- Cuban leaders denounce U.S. threats and vow “unyielding” or “impregnable” resistance, while announcing limited economic steps such as opening investment to Cubans abroad.
- Humanitarian strain is mounting with delayed surgeries, medicine shortages and crippled transport, as Washington allows fuel sales to private Cuban firms but uptake remains unclear.