Cuba Condemns New U.S. Sanctions Amid Energy Cooperation Drive

Lead Cuba’s foreign ministry rebuked a fresh package of U.S. sanctions today, even as Havana seeks to expand energy ties with China, underscoring mounting tensions over Washington’s “economic war.”

Nut Graf Bruno Rodríguez, Cuba’s foreign minister, denounced U.S. visa bans and asset freezes as part of an ongoing “merciless economic war,” while the Cuban government moves to bolster its faltering power grid through a landmark pact with Beijing-steps that illustrate Havana’s dual strategy of resistance and pragmatic outreach.

Havana’s Diplomatic Response

  • Rejecting Sanctions: Rodríguez labeled the new U.S. measures-targeting President Miguel Díaz-Canel, the defense ministry, and the interior ministry-as an attempt at regime change by “economic asphyxiation” and vowed Cuba would “not bow down”.
  • Venezuelan Solidarity: Caracas’s government issued a statement condemning U.S. Secretary of State sanctions as an “intolerable affront,” highlighting regional resistance to Washington’s policy.

Energy Cooperation with China

  • Bilateral Pact: On the eve of the U.S. announcement, Cuba and China signed an agreement to develop renewable and conventional power projects, aiming to add over 500 MW of new capacity by mid-2026.
  • Infrastructure Focus: Cuban officials emphasized the deal’s role in alleviating chronic blackouts that have crippled industry and daily life.

Domestic Impact and Wider Context

  • Economic Pressures: Cuba continues to endure daily power outages lasting up to 18 hours, double-digit inflation, and shortages of basic goods-distress factors Havana blames on U.S. sanctions and pandemic fallout.
  • Internet Fee Protests: Separate student protests erupted last month over an 800 percent hike in Wi-Fi fees, reflecting broader discontent with rising costs of living.
  • Regional Politics: The U.S. tightened travel and remittance rules for Cuba on September 1, prompting Havana to accuse Washington of weaponizing migration and family ties.

Outlook Facing escalating U.S. pressure, Cuba is balancing public defiance with strategic alliances. While Rodríguez’s denunciation rallies domestic support, the energy pact with China represents Havana’s bid to secure tangible relief for its energy crisis-an effort likely to shape Cuba’s economic resilience amid deepening geopolitical rivalry.