US Lawmakers Fly to Cuba as Blackouts Worsen, Sanctions Debated

Two US congresspersons met with Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel in Havana this week. The visit comes during a severe energy crisis causing daily blackouts across the island. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) and Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.) traveled to Cuba on Monday. Their stated goal was to discuss the impact of long-standing US sanctions. The US maintains a comprehensive economic embargo, which Cuba calls an "energy blockade." Cuban officials blame these restrictions for crippling power grid repairs and fuel shortages. The lawmakers' trip highlights ongoing debate about US-Cuba policy. Some argue sanctions pressure the government on human rights. Others say they primarily harm Cuban citizens and hinder diplomacy. Cuba's energy system has collapsed in recent weeks. Officials have imposed scheduled blackouts, often lasting over 10 hours per day. This has sparked rare public protests in several cities. No major policy changes were announced following the meeting. The discussion focused on the humanitarian effects of the crisis and the US role in it.