American sanctions have driven foreign operators out of Cuba, impacting shipping companies, airlines, miners, and hoteliers.
“We have seven containers in Kingston and another 40 in China, but we have no idea when, or if, they will arrive,” said an unnamed electric car importer.
Human rights organizations report an increase in political detentions following public demonstrations against ongoing utility shortages.
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According to Madrid-based group Prisoners Defenders, the number of political prisoners has risen to 1,306, with individuals like Héctor Ochoa Vergara being detained after taking part in a peaceful demonstration against blackouts and water shortages in Ciego de Ávila.
Leaked communications regarding potential economic and political reforms have centered around the grandson of Raúl Castro, who recently defended his position to the press.
“It pains me that many people can’t live the way I do,” Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro told USA Today.
He indicated he had no initial interest in politics but remained open to future governance roles.
“If at some point the revolution needs me to step up, I will do it,” he added.
The public display elicited criticism from Cuban academics, journalists, and television figures who questioned his lack of official institutional standing.
Academic observers suggest the high-profile interview indicates a breakdown in private diplomatic channels with Washington.
“I think there’s an open question as to who exactly he speaks for, and whether the channel of communication with him is ongoing or not,” said Michael Bustamante, chair of Cuban and Cuban American studies at the University of Miami.
