The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) is warning of worsening disruption and fuel shortages in Cuba, adding the situation could deteriorate quickly.
The FCDO advised against all but essential travel to Cuba on 12 February, after the Cuban authorities said they were unable to provide aviation fuel for a month, leading to flight cancellations.
The FCDO says disruption to infrastructure, power outages and fuel shortages are worsening and authorities have introduced fuel rationing, scaled back public services and made changes to healthcare, transport and tourism operations to conserve supplies.
Its updated advice adds: “Cuban authorities have announced that all of its international airports are without aviation fuel. Some airlines, including all Canadian airlines and LATAM, have suspended flights to and from Cuba, with others reviewing routes. This limits your options to leave the country.
“The situation has the potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning. Make sure you are ready to change your plans quickly if needed.
“If you are considering leaving Cuba, check for messaging from your airline or tour operator for up to date information. Ensure your travel documents remain valid and confirm you have any required visas for onward travel.”
The FCDO repeated its previous advice to Brits in Cuba to ‘carefully consider if your presence is essential’ and be ‘prepared for significant disruption’.
Yesterday (25 February), Cuba said its forces killed four exiles and wounded six others who sailed into its waters on board a Florida-registered speedboat and opened fire on a Cuban patrol.
See also: Cuba specialist thanks agents for support after FCDO travel warning
