The Cuban government has declared emergency measures to combat an acute energy crisis triggered by sanctions from the United States. These measures include a four-day working week for state enterprises and restrictions on fuel sales, aimed at mitigating the impacts of the crisis on essential services and the economy. According to Cuban Trade Minister Óscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga, the government is prioritizing the nation's viability while trying to maintain development amidst the challenges posed by the ongoing sanctions.

In a recent television statement, Fraga pointed fingers at Washington for the current predicament, emphasizing that the measures are necessary to protect crucial services and economic activities for the population. The changes involve not only a reduction in the working week but also limitations on transportation services between provinces, the closure of certain tourism enterprises, and adjusted school schedules in an effort to conserve fuel resources.

These new policies highlight the severity of Cuba's situation as it grapples with both external pressures from U.S. sanctions and internal challenges in maintaining energy supplies. The government's focus on essential services underlines the critical nature of the crisis, as they try to navigate a path forward that balances immediate needs with long-term sustainability in the face of growing discontent and economic difficulties within the island nation.