The Current No fuel, no tourists: What's at stake for Cuba?
Feb 20, 2026
Ricardo Torres, Cuban economist analyzing the island's economic and political strains. Rory Nickel, Guardian correspondent reporting daily life in Havana amid shortages. Tara Mashkiewicz, Canadian traveler sharing firsthand scenes from Varadero. They discuss fuel blackouts, collapsing transport and tourist numbers, impacts on public services, government responses, and geopolitical pressure shaping Cuba's near future.
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Tourist Resort Shielded From Wider Shortages
- Tara Mashkiewicz described Veradero resort life staying functional for tourists despite wider shortages.
- She said staff go 8–12 hours without power at home and were very grateful for donated solar power banks.
Fuel Shortages Disrupt Local Transport
- Tara recounted travel difficulties obtaining fuel for a Havana day trip and drivers conserving gas.
- She noted the guide transported donated medical supplies but initially lacked fuel to do so directly.
Resort Workers Face Sudden Job Uncertainty
- Tara said longtime visitors called the situation 'heartbreaking' as resort staff faced uncertain work futures.
- She described entertainers canceling farewell routines because workers feared losing their jobs.