U.S. Oil Embargo Exacerbates Systemic Vulnerabilities in Cuba’s Energy Infrastructure
Original framing: “U.S. Oil Blockade Could Condemn Cubans to Die Without a Deal” — The Intercept
The U.S. embargo on Cuba dates back to 1960 and has been reinforced through successive administrations, reflecting a broader pattern of U.S. intervention in Latin America. Similar strategies were used in the 19th and 20th centuries to control Caribbean and Central American economies through resource monopolies.
The U.S. oil embargo on Cuba is a systemic issue rooted in colonial power structures and economic dependency. By examining the historical patterns of U.S.
intervention in Latin America and comparing Cuba’s situation with other post-colonial nations, it becomes clear that energy insecurity is not just a technical problem but a political one. Indigenous and Afro-Cuban knowledge systems offer alternative models for sustainable energy use, while scientific and future modeling suggest that renewable energy and regional cooperation are viable pathways forward. Marginalized voices must be included in these discussions to ensure equitable outcomes. A holistic approach that integrates policy reform, international solidarity, and community-led innovation is essential for Cuba to break free from the constraints imposed by the embargo and build a resilient, self-sufficient energy system.