A recent report by the Wall Street Journal has drawn attention to the severe paralysis experienced in Cuba due to an oil blockade imposed by the Trump administration. This blockade, described as a decision fueled by the desire to label Cuba as an 'extraordinary threat,' has led to significant international criticisms and warnings, with experts concerned about pushing the nation towards a deep humanitarian crisis without a clear resolution in sight. In this tightening grip, Trump escalated the blockade by threatening tariffs on any nation supplying oil to Cuba, which has stirred fears of prolonged suffering among the Cuban populace.

The crisis has worsened dramatically after the last Mexican oil shipment arrived on January 9, leaving Cuba without any alternative supplies. Additionally, the country has lost crucial support from Venezuela, following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the U.S. earlier in the month. This development severed one of Cuba's most vital lifelines and threw the country into further economic disarray, complicating its ability to procure necessary goods for survival.

As a result, life in Havana has transformed; the once-bustling streets have been rendered nearly empty, with public transportation significantly reduced, making daily activities like commuting to work or school nearly impossible. The Cuban government has placed thousands of employees on forced leave as the economy struggles under the weight of the blockade, indicating a rapidly deteriorating situation where the citizens are forced to endure an overwhelming burden, with little hope of relief in sight.