US renews $100m aid offer to Cuba while tightening sanctions
The United States has renewed a $100 million aid offer to Cuba while also tightening sanctions on key parts of the island's state-controlled economy.
The move comes as Cuba faces prolonged blackouts and a deepening economic crisis.
The State Department said the offer includes direct humanitarian assistance and funding for "fast and free" internet access.
It said the decision now rests with the Cuban government, which it accused of blocking aid.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week in Rome that Cuba had rejected an earlier offer, an assertion denied by Havana.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the situation was "particularly tense" and blamed the United States for the worsening energy crisis.
The announcement matters because it combines pressure and assistance at a time when Cuba's power system is under severe strain.
Data compiled by AFP showed 65% of Cuban territory endured simultaneous blackouts on Tuesday, with record generation shortfalls in recent days.
Washington said it was seeking to promote "meaningful reforms" in Cuba.
