Mexican Aid Reaches Cuba; Chile and Russia Pledge Support
Two Mexican Navy ships, the Papaloapan and Isla Holbox, delivered over 800 tons of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This assistance was coordinated by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. The delivery arrived at the Port of Havana in the early morning hours, as reported by AFP journalists.
Mexican Aid to Cuba: A Symbol of Solidarity
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel publicly expressed gratitude to President Sheinbaum. He emphasized that the humanitarian aid represents more than just material goods; it embodies solidarity and friendship between Mexico and Cuba. His remarks were shared on social media platforms.
Contents of the Humanitarian Aid
The total aid shipment amounted to 814 tons and included various essential items, such as:
- Liquid and powdered milk
- Meat products
- Biscuits
- Beans
- Rice
- Personal hygiene products
Additionally, over 1,500 tons of powdered milk and beans await dispatch to the island, highlighting ongoing support efforts from Mexico.
Marila Garcia, a 52-year-old resident of Havana, expressed her appreciation for Mexico’s continued support amid external pressures. Eliécer Rodriguez, a 34-year-old fisherman, remarked that Mexico is the only country responding positively to Cuba’s needs at this time.
Global Support: Russia and Chile Step In
Other nations are also preparing to offer assistance. Russia, a long-time ally of Cuba, is expected to supply oil as part of humanitarian aid. This information was reported by the Russian newspaper Izvestia, which cited unnamed diplomatic sources.
Chilean Financial Aid
Chile has announced its intention to provide financial aid through multilateral organizations. Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren, representing the outgoing leftist government of President Gabriel Boric, stated that “today, it is a question of humanitarian interest” regardless of political affiliations. Details regarding the financial contribution, however, remain unspecified, with support expected to be funneled through UNICEF.
Crisis in Cuba
Cuba faces a severe economic crisis, worsened by the cessation of crude oil deliveries from Venezuela. This disruption followed the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, who are aligned with the island’s government.
The Cuban administration has accused the U.S. of attempting to “suffocate” its economy. The country is implementing emergency measures, including gasoline rationing and a four-day workweek for government employees. Healthcare services have also been impacted, with staff reductions in hospitals due to fuel shortages.
Warnings from Experts
A group of experts, not acting on behalf of the UN, has warned that interfering with fuel imports could trigger a humanitarian crisis, affecting essential services. For six years, Cuba has grappled with a severe economic crisis characterized by a lack of foreign currency, high inflation, and significant shortages.
With the tightening of the U.S. embargo and ongoing structural weaknesses, these challenges have led to persistent electricity outages and further impact on daily life.
