Cuba Faces Severe Economic and Energy Crisis Amid U.S. Blockade

Cuba is experiencing its most severe economic and energy crisis since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, largely due to a U.S. blockade, according to Ming Pao. The shortage of fuel has led to frequent power outages across the nation, severely affecting the operation of public transportation, hospitals, schools, and factories. On Thursday, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel held a rare press conference, expressing willingness to negotiate with the United States "without pressure or preconditions, on equal terms, respecting Cuba's sovereignty." He emphasized that "surrender is not an option." Additionally, Díaz-Canel labeled the United States as the greatest threat to global security and stated that Cuba is preparing for a situation that could escalate to a "state of war."