Political situation in Cuba

Cuba's classic cars stand still during the fuel crisis

The iconic classic cars that have been rolling around Cuba since before the revolution are now standing still by the side of the road, reports AP. The reason is the energy crisis that has been exacerbated by the US imposing an oil blockade on the nation.

27-year-old Diriel Valdez is restoring a burgundy 1951 Chevrolet Deluxe. The original engine still works, but the big problem is getting fuel.

In February, he stood in line on a government app. There are still about 2,800 people in front of him in the queue, he says. At the end of the line, 20 liters of gasoline are waiting.

“That's enough to drive to the beach,” says Valdez. 

Black market for gasoline flourishes in Cuba

Cuba is currently suffering one of its worst energy crises ever, which has worsened after the US imposed an oil blockade on the country. This has made it difficult to obtain fuel.

Many are therefore turning to the black market to buy gasoline, reports AP.

According to Reuters, Cuba recently raised the price at state-run gas stations, from around nine kronor per liter to around 17 kronor. But many of the stations are still closed and there is great uncertainty about where to get fuel.

On the black market, however, gasoline costs around 75 kronor per liter or more.