Cuba's Fuel Crisis: Drivers Wait Months to Refuel Amidst US Siege

Cuban drivers are experiencing long waits to refuel due to fuel shortages linked to a US oil blockade. The government mandates using an app for refueling appointments, which can take months. Fuel is now priced in US dollars, causing financial strain, with black market prices soaring.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Havana | Updated: 17-02-2026 05:01 IST | Created: 17-02-2026 05:01 IST
Cuba's Fuel Crisis: Drivers Wait Months to Refuel Amidst US Siege
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  • Country:
  • Cuba

In Cuba, drivers are enduring prolonged waits to refuel their vehicles, a result of fuel scarcity exacerbated by a US oil blockade. To manage the growing crisis, the Cuban government has introduced an app called Ticket, mandatory for securing refueling appointments.

However, many drivers report that the app offers appointments weeks, if not months away, contributing to mounting frustration. Compounding the issue, gasoline is now priced in US dollars, a significant financial burden on citizens with government workers earning less than USD 20 a month.

The island's fuel crisis is further intensified by international strains, as nations previously supplying oil have halted shipments under US pressure. Black market prices for gasoline have surged, impacting daily life and essential services.

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