Cuban mother-to-be struggles under fuel blockade

In January 2026, the Trump administration imposed an oil and fuel blockade on Cuba, triggering severe energy shortages and widespread power outages, which particularly affected vulnerable groups such as pregnant women.

Shortages of food, milk and essential medicines have put pressure on maternal care services, making pregnancy more difficult and uncertain.

The BBC’s Will Grant spoke to two expectant mothers who are facing very different realities as the energy crisis unfolds.

Learn more about the Cuban fuel blockade here.

Video shot by Blanca Estrada.