Millions of Cubans face daily power outages, shortages of medicines and food, collapsing public services, and growing difficulties accessing basic healthcare.

Omissions

• The claim does not specify a time period, but sources from 2024 through May 2026 consistently document these conditions, with a marked deterioration after the US tightened sanctions and Venezuela suspended fuel supplies in early 2026.
• The MEP did not cite specific data sources; the claim is qualitative rather than quantitative but is broadly corroborated by multiple international organisations and news outlets.
• Multiple sources published close to the session date (May 2026) confirm an escalation of the crisis in early 2026, which the MEP could reasonably reference.

Sources

• PrimaryUN NewsHospitals across Cuba are suspending surgeries, struggling to keep lifesaving equipment running and facing severe medicine shortages as blackouts and fuel shortages disrupt healthcare.
• PrimaryUN NewsCuba's humanitarian situation is worsening as fuel shortages deepen nearly a month after Washington took measures to block oil supplies. Fuel shortages are disrupting essential services including food supplies.
• PrimaryPAHO/WHOEconomic hurdles, inflationary pressures, medication and supply scarcities, and growing migration of healthcare personnel have strained the Cuban healthcare system.
• SecondaryAl JazeeraThe island of 10 million's worsening energy and economic crisis has led to a series of 'frustrating' grid collapses. Millions lose power as Cuba hit by fifth blackout in less than a year.
• SecondaryAl JazeeraUS pressure pushes island nation's 11 million people to the brink as Cuba imposes emergency measures amid fuel crisis. Shortages have disrupted daily life across the island, affecting public transport, food distribution, and the supply of medicines.
• SecondaryNational Medical Association (NMA)Cuba's healthcare system is currently experiencing severe strain driven by an intensifying energy crisis linked to restrictions on fuel access.