The executives of the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), often the target of criticism among Cubans, stated they are “¡Prepared and Alert!” during the Community Exercise on Actions in Disaster Situations, Meteoro 2025.
“Unión Eléctrica is conducting today through video conference with all companies in the sector, #EjercicioMeteoro2025 ¡Prepared and Alert! Unión Eléctrica #CubaVencerá,” reads a tweet from the institution filled with the usual triumphalist slogans of the regime.
In contrast to the reality of blackouts that Cubans endure, the Cuban regime celebrated the exercise, Meteoro 2025, this Saturday with a waste of electricity and air conditioning, while the country experiences a significant energy deficit.
Presided over by the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, who heads the National Defense Council, in Havana and in the other Cuban provinces, the Defense Councils organize meetings at government headquarters, where air conditioning and televisions for video conferencing are never lacking.
In Matanzas, Santiago de Cuba, in the capital of the country, and other territories, officials are participating, in air-conditioned rooms, in an activity classified by the regime as “essential for the preparation of leadership and command bodies, as well as the population.”
The blackouts severely impact the daily life of Cubans, affecting both household activities and essential services as well as family finances.
Power outages lead to a lack of access to water, spoilage of refrigerated food and medicines, and disruptions in transportation and public services, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and desperation among the population.
So much so that overwhelmed Cubans have decided to take to the streets to protest again. In the early hours of Friday, May 24, new popular protests were reported in several cities across Cuba: Bayamo in Granma province, Cienfuegos, and Ciego de Ávila. The demands, once again driven by prolonged blackouts and the critical situation of shortages, were shared through various videos disseminated on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis and Military Exercises in Cuba
What is Exercise Meteoro 2025 and what is its purpose?
The Meteoro 2025 Exercise is a drill organized by the Cuban government to prepare management and command bodies, as well as the population, for disaster situations. This exercise includes the participation of various governmental entities and strategic sectors of the country, such as the Electric Union, and is conducted with the aim of strengthening emergency response capabilities.
Why has Exercise Meteoro 2025 generated criticism in Cuba?
The Meteor Exercise 2025 has generated criticism due to excessive use of electricity and resources in a context of energy crisis. While many regions of Cuba suffer from prolonged blackouts that affect the daily lives of citizens, the Cuban government has used a significant amount of energy to carry out this exercise, which has been perceived as an unnecessary waste and a lack of sensitivity towards the needs of the population.
What is the current situation of the energy crisis in Cuba?
Cuba faces a severe energy crisis characterized by prolonged blackouts and a significant deficit in electricity generation. This situation is due to technical problems, lack of maintenance in generating plants, fuel shortages, and outdated infrastructure. The blackouts negatively impact the daily lives of Cubans, affecting access to basic services and creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and social unrest.
How has the Cuban government responded to the protests over power outages?
The Cuban government has responded to the protests over blackouts with a repressive stance. Authorities have labeled the demonstrations as "criminal acts" and have justified the use of force to maintain order. At times, the country's leadership has resorted to symbolic measures, such as wearing military attire, in an attempt to project control and authority in the face of growing public discontent.
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