By Micah Jonah, April 8, 2026
Hundreds of women took to the streets of Havana on Tuesday to protest the United States’ de facto oil blockade and pressure campaign against Cuba. Demonstrators carried banners reading “Tumba el bloqueo” or “Tear down the blockade,” waved Cuban flags, and donned shirts with the slogan #NoMasBloqueo.
The rally coincided with the 96th birthday of Vilma Espin, a revolutionary leader, former first lady, and sister-in-law to Fidel Castro. Senior Cuban officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Ines Maria Chapman and Deputy Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal, joined the protest to condemn Washington’s measures as collective punishment.
“This policy of abuse must end,” Vidal told AFP. “The Cuban population does not deserve to suffer under one of the most extensive systems of coercive measures ever imposed on a nation.”
The demonstration reflects Cuba’s ongoing struggle with fuel shortages, a situation worsened by US actions that have limited the island’s access to foreign oil. Since January, President Donald Trump’s administration has sought to block Cuban imports from allies such as Venezuela and imposed tariffs on any country attempting to deliver oil to the island.
The blockade has caused significant disruption. With foreign imports making up nearly 60 percent of Cuba’s oil supply, the country has faced multiple island-wide blackouts, affecting hospitals and other essential services. Recently, Russia delivered an oil tanker to Havana, providing temporary relief.
Cuban officials have also stressed that discussions with the US to lift the blockade remain at an early stage. Vidal noted that Cuba has consistently preferred dialogue over confrontation, recalling a previous period of detente under US President Barack Obama.
The march followed visits to Havana by two US lawmakers, Pramila Jayapal of Washington and Jonathan Jackson of Illinois, who met with President Miguel Diaz-Canel. The lawmakers urged the Trump administration to end the blockade, citing the severe impacts on energy, food, water, and healthcare access.
“Americans would not support such suffering if they understood the consequences,” the lawmakers said in a joint statement.
Cuba continues to rely heavily on imported oil, with domestic production covering only a fraction of its needs. Russian shipments and international support remain vital as the island navigates the effects of prolonged US sanctions.
