At least six people lost their lives in Cuba due to the hurricane 'Oscar', which made landfall in the eastern part of the island 24 hours ago. This weather phenomenon coincided with a series of blackouts that have left much of the Caribbean country without electricity since Friday. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel reported on the emergency situation in Imías and San Antonio del Sur, where the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba (FAR) and the Ministry of the Interior are leading rescue operations in areas still inaccessible.
Díaz-Canel also announced the cancellation of his participation in the BRICS summit taking place this week in Kazan, Russia, and will be replaced by Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez. This change of plans comes despite the importance Cuba places on such international meetings. The president considers it an honor to participate in the BRICS summit despite the challenges Cuba faces due to the pressure of imperial policy.
The widespread blackout has triggered protests and noise demonstrations in various Cuban cities. In response to these disturbances, Díaz-Canel warned that his government will not tolerate vandalism. The National Electric Union reported that the electricity supply in Havana has been restored, but several faults in the system have been identified. Six fatalities were reported in areas historically affected by droughts, according to preliminary data.
This crisis situation caused by hurricane 'Oscar' and the electricity supply issues is generating concern in Cuba, as the government works on rescue and recovery efforts in affected areas.
