Cuba's healthcare system is nearing collapse, overwhelmed by the United States' blockade, according to Health Minister José Ángel Portal Miranda. The nation's medical infrastructure, already strained by economic hardship, faces an unprecedented crisis.
Critical fuel shortages are impacting ambulance services, while persistent power outages further degrade hospital conditions. Flights delivering essential medical supplies have ceased, as Cuba can no longer refuel outbound aircraft.
Experts warn the blockade is fueling a humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 5 million Cubans living with chronic illnesses facing disruptions to their medications. This includes thousands of cancer patients requiring radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Cardiovascular care, oncology, and treatments for critically ill patients are among the most affected services, alongside kidney disease treatments and emergency medical transport.
The intensified energy crisis follows recent US actions targeting countries supplying oil to Cuba, aiming to exert economic pressure for regime change. Cuba, heavily reliant on foreign oil, has seen shipments from allies like Venezuela dry up. Despite US demands, Cuba's leadership insists on negotiating from a position of equal footing and respect, refusing to compromise national sovereignty.