March 15, 2025
On Friday night Cuba was hit by a national blackout at around 8:15 pm. “Apagones” are a daily feature of Cuban life but usually certain areas are hit at a time, but this event affected the entire island at once. The Ministry of Energy and Mines reported that some micro systems were now back up in some provinces. The Ministry also reported that they had already begun to synchronize generation units that strengthen the microsystems that have been set up, increasing the number of users with electricity service in several provinces of the island. The reason for these blackouts and other scarcities are clear. The tightening of the US blockade of Cuba has been continuous for over 60 year and on top of that sanctions piled up by the Biden and Trump Administrations has made it nearly impossible to get fuel and spare parts to upgrade the power plants of the island. The question has to be asked, once again, what did this island nation ever do to the US to deserve such barbarity? Despite all this the Cuban people prevail with dignity. Here is one example of many. – Editorial
operation in Cienfuegos in a black out
In a scenario of an electricity crisis unprecedented since the so-called “Special Period”, the medical staff of the Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima Provincial Teaching Hospital carried out a surgical operation under extreme conditions, following the total loss of electricity generation in the western and central regions of the country, reports the newspaper 5 de septiembre.
The incident occurred when, in the middle of a surgical operation, a major fluctuation in the National Power Grid caused a blackout in the hospital. However, far from stopping, the surgeons and the paramedical team continued the operation, using the light from cell phones and torches to illuminate the operating theater and guarantee the patient’s safety.
Despite the difficulties, the doctors demonstrated a high level of professionalism and commitment, prioritizing the patient’s life above any adversity.
This episode reflects the spirit of dedication and humanist vocation that characterizes the health personnel of Cienfuegos and Cuba, trained in the principles of altruism and social duty.
The energy crisis the country is going through has been aggravated by the intensification of the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States government, whose sanctions directly affect the acquisition of fuel, spare parts and technology essential for the Cuban electro-energy system. Despite these obstacles, health workers continue to carry out their work with determination and commitment.
This event has sparked a wave of recognition for healthcare workers, considered by many to be a symbol of sacrifice and dedication in times of crisis.
Source: Cuba en Resumen