Cuba's Central Bank has launched a new floating exchange rate for the US dollar, set initially at 410 pesos per dollar, effective December 18. This move aims to formalize foreign currency transactions and capture funds from the informal market, addressing economic distortions amidst a severe crisis. The new rate is part of a three-tiered system.
Cuba has vehemently condemned the US seizure of the oil tanker 'Skipper' off Venezuela's coast, labeling it an 'act of piracy and maritime terrorism.' The vessel, carrying nearly 2 million barrels of Venezuelan crude destined for Cuba, was intercepted by US forces on December 10, 2025. Havana warns the action jeopardizes its critical oil supply and exacerbates its economic crisis.
Cuba's Vice Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal vehemently denied media reports claiming Havana initiated talks with the United States regarding a post-Maduro Venezuela, labeling them 'absurd and false.' The denial comes amidst escalating US-Cuba tensions and US military actions in the Caribbean.
A significant power outage struck Havana and western Cuba on December 3, 2025, leaving millions without electricity. The blackout, caused by a transmission line failure, highlights the island's ongoing energy crisis due to an aging grid and fuel shortages. Restoration efforts are underway but gradual.
Cuba marked Latin American Medicine Day on December 3rd, celebrating the birth of pioneering scientist Dr. Carlos Juan Finlay, whose discovery of the Aedes aegypti mosquito as the yellow fever transmitting agent revolutionized tropical medicine. The nation honored its healthcare professionals and highlighted its significant contributions to global health and medical cooperation.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla recently thanked China for its unwavering opposition to hostile U.S. policies, including the long-standing economic blockade and Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. China has consistently called for the lifting of these measures, citing their severe impact on the Cuban people.
Cuba's Ministry of Finance and Prices has extended tax payment deadlines until November 30, 2025, for five eastern provinces devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The measure, formalized by Resolution 322, aims to support economic and social recovery in Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, Holguín, and Las Tunas, which suffered extensive damage from the Category 3 hurricane that made landfall on October 29.
Cuba's government has formally accused the US-funded media outlet El Toque of 'financial terrorism' and manipulating the informal exchange rate to destabilize the island's economy. El Toque, which publishes real-time informal currency rates, denies the allegations, asserting editorial independence despite receiving US State Department grants.
Cuba is experiencing constant and frequent power outages, severely impacting daily life across the island. The crisis stems from an aging energy infrastructure, chronic fuel shortages, and economic challenges, leading to significant electricity deficits and disruptions to essential services.
Four days after Hurricane Melissa made landfall, eastern Cuba, particularly Granma and Santiago de Cuba, faces severe damage. Widespread power outages, telecommunications disruptions, and destruction to homes, infrastructure, crops, and public institutions are reported. Rescue operations continue as international assistance begins to arrive.
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in eastern Cuba as a Category 3 storm on October 29, 2025, causing widespread damage and prompting mass evacuations. The storm previously devastated Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane, leaving a trail of destruction and casualties across the Caribbean.
Cuban Ambassador to France, Otto Vaillant, has strongly condemned the United States' long-standing economic, commercial, and financial blockade against Cuba. His remarks come as the UN General Assembly prepares for its 33rd annual vote on a resolution calling for an end to the embargo, a measure that has consistently garnered overwhelming international support.
An 18-year-old, Samuel Sampedro, has died during mandatory military service at Combinado del Este in Havana. His family has not received official details regarding his death and is demanding transparency and justice amidst growing criticism of Cuba's military service.
Cuba's escalating energy crisis, marked by frequent and lengthy power outages, is profoundly disrupting the work of independent journalists. These blackouts cut off internet access, impede reporting, and exacerbate existing state restrictions, impacting journalists' ability to inform the public.
Independent gender observatories in Cuba have confirmed 12 attempted femicides by October 2025, involving nine women, one transgender woman, and two girls. These incidents highlight a persistent crisis of gender-based violence in the country, amidst a lack of official statistics.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has issued a stern warning to citizens protesting in Havana over severe shortages of basic services like water and electricity. He stated that measures would be taken against those blocking public roads, calling such actions 'unacceptable public disorder,' while acknowledging the legitimacy of some grievances.
Tropical Storm Imelda brought heavy rains and landslides to eastern Cuba, resulting in the death of 60-year-old Luis Mario Pérez Coiterio in Santiago de Cuba. Over 1,291 people were evacuated, with significant rainfall and emergency responses reported in affected provinces.
Residents of Ciego de Ávila, Cuba, have actively joined a global day of solidarity with Venezuela, signing in support of the Bolivarian Revolution and President Nicolás Maduro. This local action aligns with Cuba's recent declarations condemning perceived US military aggression and interventionist intentions in Venezuela.
Ukrainian intelligence claims thousands of Cubans are fighting for Russia, with over 1,000 identified and 39 confirmed dead. Recruitment is allegedly driven by financial incentives, with Cubans receiving around $2,000 monthly. Havana's role remains contentious amidst denials and accusations of complicity.
