An effective U.S. oil blockade has worsened the island’s energy crisis. The U.S. Embassy in Havana, too, is feeling the effects.

The Cuban government has refused a request by the U.S. Embassy in Havana to allow it to import diesel for its generators while the Trump administration continues to impose a fuel blockade on the island,

Some 650 delegates from 33 countries and 120 organizations began arriving in Cuba on Friday as part of a solidarity caravan transporting some 20 tons of humanitarian aid as the island grapples with a severe energy crisis.

The rally comes at a time when President Trump and top administration officials have been pressing for dramatic change in Cuba and an end to its communist government.

Cuba’s Revolutionary Armed Forces has gifted troubadour Silvio Rodríguez a combat AKM rifle and a replica of one after he recently said he would take up arms for the island.

According to Cuban authorities, about 45% of electricity service has been restored nationwide, but roughly half the country remains without power. Reports indicate that more than 150 protests have taken place across the island this month alone.

Cuba's regime faces unprecedented economic pressure from Donald Trump's administration, forcing talks on liberalisation as fuel blockades and sanctions devastate the island.

President Donald Trump this week said he believes he’ll have “the honor of taking Cuba” soon. Without declaring a formal blockade, Trump and his administration have already crippled trade with the island and threatened the future of the Communist Party regime.

Lines to get some fuel or to buy potatoes — for those who can afford it — are scenes of daily life in Havana.

By Daniel Trotta HAVANA, March 20 (Reuters) - Cuba on Friday rejected any suggestion that its political system or the term of its president were subject to negotiation in talks with the United States,