Protests have erupted in the Cuban city of Morón, located in Ciego de Ávila province, about 250 miles from Havana. Demonstrators are voicing their dissatisfaction with persistent blackouts and critical resource shortages.
Footage reveals crowds outside the local Communist Party headquarters, chanting for freedom and expressing their anger. The protests escalated as demonstrators vandalized the building and attempted to ignite it with burning objects.
Videos captured scenes of protesters surrounding the site, with multiple fires in view. Reports indicate that at least one person sustained injuries amid gunfire, though the source remains unclear, as stated by Fox News.
In response, state media such as Vanguardia de Cuba refuted claims of injuries due to gunfire, suggesting that circulating images were misleading. They mentioned five arrests and explained an incident involving a participant who fell and needed medical attention.
WATCH: Cubans set fire to Communist Party headquarters in Morón, Ciego de Ávila pic.twitter.com/qnU8In2u99
— Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) March 14, 2026
The unrest follows earlier protests, including university sit-ins at the University of Havana on March 9 concerning class disruptions from energy and internet issues. Pot-banging protests, known as cacerolazos, have been reported in places like Arroyo Naranjo since February 6.
The protests arise as U.S. pressure mounts on the Cuban government. The Trump Administration’s oil blockade has halted Venezuelan oil imports, crucial to Cuba’s economy, resulting in a three-month petroleum shortage exacerbating the energy crisis.
Amidst these tensions, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel announced discussions with U.S. officials aimed at addressing bilateral conflicts. As part of the talks, Cuba agreed to release 51 political prisoners, facilitated partially by the Vatican.
