Cuba Struggles Through Hurricane Oscar Amid Power Shortages
Díaz-Canel had to cancel his trip to the BRICS Summit due to the power shortage coupled with the weather crisis
Amid an electricity supply crisis, Hurricane Oscar hit Cuba’s eastern province of Guantanamo with winds of nearly 80 mph. The storm caused power outages, leading to water distribution issues and food spoilage. President Miguel Diaz-Canel warned of severe actions against public order disturbances during the blackout.
The storm exacerbated Cuba’s existing challenges with inflation and shortages, which were blamed on a long-standing US trade embargo. The country prepared for continued tropical storm conditions, with rainfall and flooding expected in several provinces.
Díaz-Canel canceled his trip to the BRICS Summit to address the crisis at home, missing the opportunity to engage with world leaders. Despite setbacks, he emphasized Cuba’s need for international cooperation and solidarity in the face of adversity.