Cuba’s national grid collapsed Monday in its worst blackout since the US tightened energy sanctions this year, plunging 11 million people into darkness and worsening an economic crisis. The Cuban Ministry of Energy confirmed the “full disconnection” and began restoration efforts, but the outage disrupts daily life as fuel shortages cripple hospitals, tourism, and food distribution. President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed talks with Washington to resolve the blockade, though US President Donald Trump prioritized ending Iran tensions before addressing Cuba. Mexico, Cuba’s last oil supplier, faces US pressure to halt shipments, deepening energy insecurity. The blackout follows weeks of sporadic protests, including a Morón riot where protesters burned a Communist Party office, capturing global attention.