Starting at the beginning of 2026, the U.S. government effectively cut Cuba off from receiving oil shipments in an effort to force a regime change in the country. The blockade has led to frequent nationwide blackouts and the lack of gasoline is now debilitating hospitals, the food supply and public transportation.

Teddie Potter is a former nursing professor with the University of Minnesota who now she spends her time leading a health nonprofit called “Medical Education Cooperation with Cuba.” She’s been spending a lot of time in Cuba and shared more about what she’s seen as well as her work there on Minnesota Now.