Mexico will continue accepting Cuban medical workers despite US pressure

A humanitarian aid flotilla organized by activists arrived in Cuba on Tuesday, delivering food, medicine, solar panels, and bicycles. The "Nuestra America" convoy, originating from Mexico, aims to provide support amid a worsening energy crisis attributed to a US blockade. Activists describe the aid as a small gesture of solidarity intended to highlight the impact of US energy restrictions, which they say have severely limited petroleum imports. The arrival of the "Granma 2.0" vessel, with two others en route, coincides with increased US pressure on Cuba, including discussions of regime change and stricter energy limitations. Over 650 participants from 33 countries were greeted by President Miguel Díaz-Canel upon arrival in Cuba last weekend.

A nationwide blackout has plunged Cuba into darkness, affecting over 10 million residents and businesses. The power outage, reported by the BBC's Will Grant from Havana, is due to the collapse of the country's national electrical grid. Cuba has experienced multiple blackouts this month, which are attributed to chronic fuel shortages and an aging electricity infrastructure. The fuel shortages are reportedly exacerbated by a US fuel blockade that restricts foreign oil imports needed to operate power stations. The Communist-run island nation is struggling to maintain a stable power supply amid these challenges.

Cuba experienced a nationwide power grid collapse on Saturday, March 21, 2026, leaving the entire island without electricity for the third time in March. The state-owned Cuban Electric Union reported the total blackout but did not specify the cause. Restoration efforts are underway. The blackouts are attributed to the country's decaying infrastructure and a U.S.-imposed oil blockade, creating challenges for the communist government. Residents of Havana were photographed spending the night in darkness along the Malecon seawall.

A boat carrying humanitarian aid arrived in Havana, Cuba on Tuesday, delivering medical supplies, food, and solar panels. The boat, part of a larger flotilla, departed from Mexico and faced delays due to weather and mechanical issues. The delivery is intended to alleviate the impact of a US fuel blockade that has exacerbated Cuba's energy crisis. International activists on board the boat, symbolically named "Granma 2.0," displayed signs protesting the blockade as they arrived. The initiative aims to show solidarity with the Cuban people and call for an end to the US embargo.

A boat carrying humanitarian aid arrived in Havana, Cuba on Tuesday, delivering medical supplies, food, and solar panels. The boat, part of a larger flotilla, departed from Mexico and faced delays due to weather and mechanical issues. The delivery is intended to alleviate the impact of a US fuel blockade that has exacerbated Cuba's energy crisis. International activists on board the boat, symbolically named "Granma 2.0," displayed signs protesting the blockade as they arrived. The initiative aims to show solidarity with the Cuban people and call for an end to the US embargo.

In March 2026, an aid flotilla reached Cuba to deliver food and medical supplies. The arrival comes as Cuba faces severe fuel shortages and widespread blackouts. A US-imposed oil blockade is cited as the cause of the shortages. Activists organized the flotilla as part of a growing international effort to provide support to the island nation. The aid aims to alleviate the hardship caused by the ongoing fuel crisis.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum affirmed that Mexico will continue its agreement to receive Cuban medical workers, who often serve in underserved rural areas. This decision comes despite pressure from the United States, which passed a law in February that opens the door to sanctions on countries participating in the Cuban medical program. The US alleges the program involves coerced labor and seeks to isolate Cuba. Sheinbaum stated the agreement benefits Mexico, as Cuban doctors are willing to work in rural areas where Mexican doctors are less likely to go. Several other Latin American countries have ended their participation in the program. The Cuban government views the program as a sign of solidarity and a source of revenue.

Cuba rejected a request from the U.S. embassy in Havana to import diesel fuel to power its generators amidst the island's energy crisis. The Cuban foreign ministry called the request "shameless," citing that such privileges are unavailable to the Cuban people. This refusal comes as Cuba faces severe fuel shortages and widespread power outages affecting its roughly 10 million residents. The country's economic struggles are attributed to economic mismanagement, corruption, and a decades-old U.S. trade embargo. The energy ministry reported a nationwide power outage on Saturday, the second in less than a week, highlighting the deteriorating infrastructure and outdated power grid.

In March 2026, Cuba's national power grid collapsed, causing a nationwide blackout affecting approximately 10 million people. The state-owned electricity company is investigating the cause of the shutdown. This collapse follows a halt in oil imports to Cuba since early January due to a US pressure campaign, including threats of sanctions against countries delivering fuel. The US actions, aimed at regime change, have exacerbated Cuba's existing economic problems, leading to shortages of fuel, food, and medicine. Prior to the blackout, two-thirds of the country experienced a power outage earlier in the month due to a breakdown at a major power plant.

Cuba experienced a nationwide blackout on Monday, impacting its 11 million residents amid an ongoing energy and economic crisis. The Ministry of Energy and Mines is investigating the "complete disconnection" of the electrical system. President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that the island has not received oil shipments in over three months, relying on alternative energy sources. The government has postponed tens of thousands of surgeries due to the energy shortages. Cuba attributes its energy woes partly to a U.S. energy blockade initiated under the Trump administration, as well as halted oil shipments from Venezuela after U.S. actions against that country. While Cuba produces 40% of its own petroleum, it is not enough to meet demand as the electric grid deteriorates.

Cuba's national electrical grid has collapsed, leaving approximately 10 million people without power. The state grid operator, UNE, is investigating the cause of the blackout, which follows a series of widespread outages and recent protests. The collapse occurs amidst a US-imposed oil blockade, implemented after the US captured Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro in January, that has significantly limited Cuba's oil imports. Venezuela, formerly Cuba's main oil supplier, has not sent fuel this year, and other imports have been minimal. Cuba has stated it is in talks with the US to resolve the crisis, while the US president has claimed Cuba is nearing collapse.

The US government, led by President Trump and Secretary of State Rubio, is increasing pressure on Cuba, suggesting potential imminent action. Rubio stated Cuba needs "new people in charge" due to its struggling economy and political system. The US continues a de facto fuel embargo, threatening sanctions against countries supplying Cuba, exacerbating the island's economic crisis. While Cuba recently announced measures to allow exiles to invest in Cuban businesses, Rubio deemed it insufficient. Trump has hinted at taking action against Cuba soon, while reports suggest the US administration is calling for President Diaz-Canel's resignation.

In March 2026, as the US increases pressure on Cuba following actions in Iran, China faces a dilemma balancing geopolitical realities and ideological alignment. Analysts predict China's response will be limited to diplomatic opposition and humanitarian aid due to the risk of disrupting global stability. This comes after President Trump stated his intention to "take" Cuba, citing the impact of a US oil squeeze that caused widespread blackouts. The New York Times reported that US officials have also told Havana it should remove President Miguel Diaz-Canel. The US actions represent an escalation in Washington's pressure campaign against Cuba.

Amid widespread blackouts and unrest in Cuba, Senator Marco Rubio stated that U.S. sanctions are linked to political change on the island, citing the Cuban economy's dependence on subsidies and the current leadership's inability to address the crisis. The island nation is facing a severe energy crisis, leaving millions without power and sparking protests. President Trump indicated his administration is actively engaged and suggested potential intervention. A State Department official attributed the crisis to the Cuban regime's incompetence and decades of communist rule, rejecting claims that U.S. sanctions are responsible. A Cuban human rights activist echoed this sentiment, arguing that the crisis reflects a systemic collapse within the regime itself.

In March 2026, Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio "categorically" rejected any negotiation with the United States regarding the removal of President Miguel Diaz-Canel. This statement came in response to reports that the Trump administration was seeking Diaz-Canel's ouster, similar to strategies employed in Venezuela. Fernandez de Cossio emphasized that Cuba's political system and leadership are not subject to negotiation with the U.S. Diaz-Canel, who is not a member of the Castro family, is serving his second five-year term as president and also heads the Communist Party. While open to trade discussions, the Cuban government maintains that its leadership is non-negotiable.

In March 2026, the Trump administration announced its goal to remove Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel from power by the end of the year. The announcement continues a long history of US efforts to oust Cuban leaders, spanning 65 years. The Al Jazeera report by Marthe van der Wolf seeks to explain who Diaz-Canel is and the historical context behind Washington's ongoing attempts to overthrow Cuban leadership. The report aims to provide clarity on the motivations and background surrounding the US policy towards Cuba.

In March 2026, U.S. President Trump stated the U.S. would soon take action regarding Cuba. This announcement was made while the U.S. was engaged in military conflict with Iran. The U.S. President and Secretary of State are focused on Cuba, specifically demanding a change in leadership in Havana. The specific nature and timing of the planned U.S. action towards Cuba were not detailed in the report. The reasons behind the demand for leadership change were also not disclosed.

The Cuban government announced it will release 51 prisoners in the coming days as a gesture of goodwill and due to its close relationship with the Vatican. The government stated those being released have served a significant portion of their sentences and maintained good conduct. This announcement precedes a rare press conference by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel to address national and international issues. Cuba has released thousands of prisoners in recent years, including over 500 in early 2025 following talks with the Vatican, one of whom was prominent dissident José Daniel Ferrer. It is currently unknown if any of those being released are considered political prisoners, of which Prisoners Defenders estimates there are over 1,200 in Cuba.

Five people were arrested in Moron, Cuba, after a protest at a local Communist party office escalated into vandalism. Protesters ransacked the office, setting fire to computers and furniture in the street, and also damaged a pharmacy and another shop. The incident follows growing discontent in Cuba due to shortages of food, medicine, and frequent power outages, with nightly protests spreading across the country. These issues are exacerbated by a US oil blockade, which Cuba's president blames for the lack of petroleum shipments in the past three months. The US president has openly expressed his desire for regime change in Cuba and has placed the island under an oil blockade, citing it as an "extraordinary threat" to the US.

Protesters in Moron, Cuba, attacked a Communist party office early Saturday morning, according to state media reports. The demonstration, initially a peaceful rally against power outages and food shortages, escalated into violence. Videos circulating on social media showed people throwing rocks and setting fires at the building while chanting for "liberty," though Reuters could not independently verify the footage. The unrest is attributed to worsening blackouts, exacerbated by the US oil blockade against Cuba. The US has tightened sanctions on Cuba, particularly after capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Cuba's main benefactor, cutting off Venezuelan oil shipments and threatening tariffs on countries selling oil to Cuba, further straining the Cuban economy.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced that Cuba and the United States have engaged in discussions aimed at resolving bilateral differences amid escalating threats from the Trump administration. These talks seek solutions through dialogue as Cuba faces a severe blockade, particularly impacting oil shipments. According to Diaz-Canel, no petroleum has arrived in Cuba in three months due to the US energy blockade, exacerbated by the disruption of Venezuelan shipments following US actions in South America. The situation has led to widespread power outages and significant disruptions in Cuba, affecting communications, education, transportation, and healthcare. The goal of the talks is to determine the willingness of both countries to take actions benefiting their respective populations.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed that Cuban officials have engaged in talks with the U.S. government to address the U.S. blockade against Cuba. The discussions aim to find solutions to bilateral differences through dialogue, conducted with respect for both nations' sovereignty. These talks occurred amid a severe economic crisis in Cuba, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and an oil blockade imposed by the Trump administration. The announcement follows a previous warning from Díaz-Canel about potential "extreme measures" due to the economic situation. U.S. officials also held talks with Raúl Castro's grandson, Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, during a Caricom meeting in St. Kitts and Nevis last month.

Cuba announced it will release 51 prisoners in the coming days as a gesture of goodwill after discussions with the Vatican. The prisoners have served a significant portion of their sentences and maintained good conduct. This announcement coincides with ongoing talks between US and Cuban officials aimed at resolving differences, amidst strained relations and US sanctions. Cuba is currently experiencing fuel shortages, partly due to US pressure and disrupted oil shipments from Venezuela, leading to electricity grid instability. The US has threatened further action against Cuba, while Cuba is increasing domestic energy production.

Rare anti-government protests have erupted in Cuba, fueled by food and energy shortages exacerbated by US restrictions. On Saturday, March 14, 2026, a local communist party office in Moron was set on fire, leading to the arrest of five people for vandalism. The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into property damage, with demonstrators reportedly shouting for "liberty." While some reports suggest gunfire and injuries, state media denies these claims. The unrest reflects growing public frustration with shortages, leading to demonstrations like banging pots and pans and student sit-ins. Protests are rare in Cuba due to the threat of government repression.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirmed that Cuba and the United States have recently engaged in talks to address bilateral differences. This marks the first confirmation of such discussions. Diaz-Canel attributed Cuba's current energy crisis to a US energy blockade, stating that no petroleum shipments have arrived in the past three months. A recent blackout in western Cuba left millions without power, exacerbating the situation. The lack of power has impacted communications, education, transport, and healthcare, leading to the postponement of numerous surgeries. While Cuba produces 40% of its petroleum, it has been insufficient to meet the country's energy demands.

Cuban authorities announced the successful repair of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, which had shut down earlier in the week, causing widespread blackouts. The plant, located in Cuba, is expected to resume operations by Saturday afternoon. A broken boiler caused the shutdown, leaving millions without power in the country's western areas. The repair pace was slowed by difficult working conditions and safety concerns. The incident occurred amidst increasing US pressure, including an oil blockade, which has strained Cuba's aging energy infrastructure. The US has taken measures to isolate Cuba and cut off its oil supply, further impacting the island's energy system.

A widespread power outage struck western Cuba on Wednesday, impacting millions from Camagüey to Pinar del Río, including Havana. The blackout, caused by a shutdown at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, is the latest in a series of energy crises exacerbated by U.S. sanctions imposed during the Trump administration. Cuba's aging infrastructure and fuel shortages, worsened by the halt of Venezuelan oil exports in January, contribute to the instability. While some businesses and residents utilize solar panels and generators, the government anticipates at least three days to fully restore power. The U.S. Embassy in Cuba warns of prolonged outages affecting essential services and advises residents to conserve resources. Despite the energy crisis, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has stated his administration will not negotiate with Washington for a new agreement.

A widespread blackout plunged millions of Cubans into darkness on Wednesday, affecting a large area from Camaguey to Havana. The outage was triggered by a breakdown at the Antonio Guiteras power plant. This is the second major blackout in the western region in three months, exacerbating existing fuel shortages and straining the country's infrastructure. Cuba has faced increasing power cuts due to fuel shortages, partly attributed to U.S. sanctions and the disruption of oil shipments from Venezuela since January. The fuel crisis has also led to Air France suspending flights to Havana, further impacting international tourism. The blackouts are disrupting essential services, including hospitals and public transportation.

In March 2026, President Donald Trump stated that regime change in Cuba is a matter of time, potentially following US action against Iran. Speaking at the White House, Trump praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio's work on Cuba, where the administration has been tightening economic sanctions. Trump's administration has been increasing economic pressure on Cuba with the goal of overthrowing its communist government. He has previously threatened to cut off Venezuela's oil supply to Cuba. Trump has expressed willingness to use military force to advance his global priorities, including in Latin America, despite international law constraints.

US President Donald Trump stated that Cuba is likely to "fall pretty soon" during an interview with CNN. He made this comment a day after mentioning a potential project for Cuba after the war against Iran. Trump's comments were seen as a renewed threat to the communist-ruled island, which has been facing a US energy blockade. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will reportedly be Trump's point man on Cuba, given his son's background as a Cuban immigrant and desire for regime change in Havana. The US and Israel recently launched attacks on Iran that killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading some to speculate that Cuba could be next on Trump's list of foreign interventions.

Donald Trump's administration may be shifting its focus to Cuba following recent actions regarding Iran. The US President has suggested a potential change in the Cuban regime, stating the island is "ready to fall." These comments, made during a White House event with Inter Miami CF, indicate a possible shift in US policy towards Cuba. The BBC is exploring Trump's recent statements to determine if his administration is planning to target Cuba next. The reasons behind this potential shift and the specific actions the US might take remain unclear.

The Cuban government announced a fifth death resulting from a February 26th shootout with a Florida-flagged speedboat near Cayo Falcones. Cuban authorities claim the boat, carrying 10 people, opened fire on Cuban soldiers. Cuba alleges the passengers were armed Cuban-Americans intending to infiltrate the island and commit acts of terrorism. Authorities have filed terrorism charges against six suspects and presented evidence including weapons and ammunition allegedly found on the boat. The Cuban Interior Ministry stated that investigations are ongoing and suggest the involvement of other individuals based in the United States. The remaining injured detainees are reportedly receiving specialized medical care.

Cuban prosecutors have charged six Cuban exiles with terrorism following a deadly speedboat attack. The defendants, based in the United States, are accused of traveling to Cuba with the intent to destabilize the Communist government. The incident involved a US-flagged speedboat and a shootout with the Cuban coast guard. The Cuban government alleges the individuals were armed and planned to attack military units on the island. The charges stem from an event that occurred last week.

Cuban authorities reported that a speedboat carrying 10 men from the United States attempted to destabilize the Cuban government. The incident occurred this week when the boat was intercepted by Cuban border agents, resulting in a shootout that killed four of the men. The six surviving crew members are receiving medical treatment, as is at least one Cuban officer. According to CBS News, at least one of the deceased was a U.S. citizen. Cuban officials defended their response, stating the speedboat passengers initiated the gunfire. An associate of one of the deceased men claimed he sought to overthrow the Cuban government, amidst heightened tensions between Cuba and the U.S.

According to the Cuban government, a boat carrying ten armed individuals opened fire on Cuban soldiers in Cuban waters on Wednesday. Cuban authorities allege the individuals were Cuban citizens residing in the United States. The Cuban government claims the group's intention was to infiltrate the island and commit acts of terrorism. The incident resulted in four deaths. The Cuban government has not released further details about the event or the identities of those involved. The investigation is ongoing.

Cuban border guards shot and killed four people aboard a US-registered speedboat in Cuban waters on Wednesday. According to Cuba's government, the incident occurred near Cayo Falcones after the speedboat's occupants allegedly opened fire on a Cuban coast guard vessel that approached them for identification, wounding the commander. Six other passengers on the speedboat were wounded and received medical assistance. The nationalities and purpose of those on board the Florida-registered vessel are currently unknown, and Cuba has launched an investigation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the US is gathering facts and will make determinations based on its findings. The incident occurs amid heightened tensions between the US and Cuba.

In February 2026, President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. is in talks with Cuba, suggesting a possible "friendly takeover" of the island nation. Speaking to reporters in Washington, D.C., Trump mentioned that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is engaged in high-level discussions with Cuban leaders. Trump characterized Cuba as a "failed nation" seeking U.S. assistance, citing their current economic struggles. These remarks followed a recent incident where a boat carrying armed Cubans from the U.S. allegedly opened fire on Cuban soldiers off the island's coast, resulting in casualties on both sides. The White House did not provide further clarification on the President's comments.

In February 2026, President Donald Trump suggested the possibility of a "friendly takeover" of Cuba by the United States. Speaking to reporters, Trump stated that Cuba is in economic distress and seeking US assistance. He claimed Cuba has "no money, no oil, no food" and is a "failing nation." Trump mentioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio is leading the initiative. The US has been increasing pressure on Cuba, with strained relations and a trade embargo in place since the 1960s. Trump has been pushing for regime change on the island over the last two months, using economic and diplomatic pressure.

Donald Trump suggested the possibility of a "friendly takeover" of Cuba amid heightened tensions between the US and Cuba. Trump stated that the Cuban government is in trouble and engaging in discussions with the US. These comments follow reports of US officials meeting with Raúl Castro's grandson and increased pressure on Cuba after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The US has been tightening its grip on Cuba by imposing an oil blockade on the island, strangling what was left of the island’s already parlous economy. Trump alluded to the Cuban exile community in the US, suggesting a takeover of the island could be “something good ... very positive” for them. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has previously stated that any discussions must respect Cuba's sovereignty and independence.

Cuba is facing a severe economic crisis marked by widespread blackouts and shortages of essential goods, threatening the stability of the Cuban Revolution. The situation has worsened since the coronavirus pandemic and the disruption of oil supplies from Venezuela. Many Cubans are experiencing poverty reminiscent of the pre-revolution era, struggling to obtain food and fuel for cooking. The US government's increased control over Venezuela's oil industry has significantly reduced crude oil shipments to Cuba. As a result, families are resorting to using firewood for cooking and facing daily struggles to secure basic necessities. This economic hardship is causing widespread discontent and raising questions about the revolution's ability to provide for its citizens.

The United States will allow the resale of some Venezuelan oil to Cuba, easing restrictions amid a worsening energy crisis on the island. The US Treasury Department stated licenses would be granted for commercial and humanitarian use, excluding entities linked to the Cuban government. This policy shift comes after Venezuela's oil supply to Cuba ceased following US actions against Venezuelan President Maduro, and Mexico halted shipments due to US tariff threats. Caribbean leaders, meeting in Saint Kitts and Nevis, expressed concerns that the blockade's humanitarian impact could destabilize the region. Jamaican Prime Minister Holness emphasized that a prolonged crisis in Cuba would have wider consequences.

In February 2026, a report highlighted Cuba's severe economic crisis, the worst in 67 years, exacerbated by blackouts and fuel shortages. The report attributes the crisis to tightened U.S. restrictions on oil under President Trump. Frances Robles, an international correspondent, discussed the situation with Katrin Bennhold. The report details how these U.S. policies are impacting the Cuban economy. The collaborative report was produced by Frances Robles, Katrin Bennhold, Leila Medina, Alexandra Ostasiewicz, Rafaela Balster and Parin Behrooz.