BREAKING: Cuba faces a precarious future following the U.S. military strike that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Early reports indicate that 32 Cuban security officers were killed in the surprise attack, igniting fear and uncertainty across the island nation.
In a somber ceremony held at dawn on Monday, Cuban officials lowered flags to honor the fallen officers. This tragic event has left many Cubans grappling with the implications of Maduro’s ouster, as the Venezuelan government has been a crucial ally, providing essential oil supplies to Cuba’s struggling economy.
The Trump administration has long aimed to weaken the Cuban government, and this latest development could severely impact Cuba’s economic stability. President Trump warned that the Cuban economy will suffer further, stating, “It’s going down for the count.” The potential loss of Venezuelan oil, which has been integral to sustaining Cuba’s economy, poses an immediate threat to the daily lives of the Cuban people.
Cuban energy expert Jorge Piñón revealed that Venezuela has been supplying Cuba with an average of 35,000 barrels of oil daily, accounting for about a quarter of the island’s total demand. He questioned whether the U.S. would allow Venezuela to continue this critical support, noting that previous oil supplies from Mexico have already dwindled dramatically.
Cuban citizens are expressing their deep concern. “I can’t talk. I have no words,” said Berta Luz Sierra Molina, a 75-year-old resident, as she sobbed over the uncertain future. Meanwhile, 63-year-old Regina Mendez voiced her determination, stating, “Give me a rifle, and I’ll go fight.”
The emotional toll is palpable as residents awaken to the stark reality of potential blackouts and food shortages, which have already plagued the island even before this crisis. Economist Ricardo Torres noted the severity of the situation, emphasizing the catastrophic implications of losing Venezuelan oil supplies. “Imagine a future now in the short term losing that,” he warned.
As the situation unfolds, the international community is urged to respond. Cuban authorities have called for solidarity against what they describe as “state terrorism.” The future remains uncertain for the island of 10 million people, now facing the unimaginable prospect of an even more dire existence without its primary ally.
Stay tuned for the latest developments on this critical issue as the impact of Maduro’s ouster continues to resonate across Cuba and beyond.