The ongoing fuel crisis in Cuba has become increasingly visible in the streets of Havana, where piles of trash are accumulating day by day due to the reduced waste collection operations. The fuel shortages have severely impacted essential public services, with only a fraction of the waste collection trucks operational in the capital city, prompting widespread concern about sanitation and public health.

As of the start of this year, the U.S. has cut off Venezuelan oil supplies to Cuba entirely and threatened economic warfare against any country that imports Venezuelan oil to resell to the island. This situation has been compounded by Mexico also halting its oil supplies to Cuba. According to reports, Cuba's oil reserves are now projected to last only between 15 to 20 days, forcing the Cuban government to implement fuel austerity measures, including a rationing system aimed at preserving essential services amid the crisis.

The ongoing fuel shortage has resulted in long queues at gas stations for Cubans trying to fill their vehicles and unaffordable home barrels, alongside a halt in air travel and severe disruptions to the tourism sector. Additionally, frequent power outages and a decline in public transport services have added to the hardships experienced by residents, further intensifying the public outcry and the need for solutions to the ongoing crisis.