Cuba Roundup: Humanitarian aid from India, explosions, tourism gains

Evacuees due to explosions in eastern Cuban province return home

Evacuees from recent explosions in eastern Cuba are returning home as authorities deem their residences no longer at risk. The Ministry of the Interior (MINFAR) noted that while specialised actions continue near the incident site, access remains restricted due to ongoing explosions. According to Prensa Latina, Major Leonar Palma Matos, Major Carlos Carreño del Río, and several soldiers are still reported missing following the January 7 incident at a construction site storing war materials. MINFAR is maintaining contact with relatives of the missing and will provide updates as conditions change.

India sends humanitarian aid in medicines to Cuba

India has sent humanitarian aid to Cuba, including antibiotics, antipyretics, analgesics, oral solutions, and muscle relaxants, as confirmed by the Indian Foreign Ministry. This aid highlights the close ties between the two nations, which are celebrating 65 years of diplomatic relations. In June 2024, India previously sent 90 tons of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) to Cuba to produce essential medicines. As reported by Prensa Latina, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised that this assistance reaffirms India's commitment to its historic friendship with Cuba and its role as the "Pharmacy of the World."

Cuba listed among top 10 best places to go in the Caribbean

Conde Nast Traveller named the Space Coast in Florida one of the top 10 places to visit in North America and the Caribbean in 2025. It stands out as the only Florida destination and the only U.S. location east of the Rocky Mountains on the list. Key attractions include frequent rocket launches, anticipated lunar missions, outdoor activities such as sea turtle nesting, and the unique bioluminescence of the Indian River Lagoon. Other destinations that made the list include Alaska, Cuba, and Banff, Florida Today reports.

US finds no ‘Havana syndrome’ link to foreign powers

U.S. intelligence has found no evidence directly linking foreign powers to the mysterious "Havana syndrome" suffered by U.S. diplomats and personnel. A review by seven intelligence agencies concluded that it is very unlikely a foreign adversary is responsible for the reported injuries, which include headaches and cognitive issues. However, as highlighted by AP, two agencies suggested the possibility that a foreign power could have developed or deployed a weapon causing these symptoms, though they expressed low confidence in this assessment. The incidents first reported in Cuba in 2016 have prompted calls for further investigation, but officials have yet to identify a definitive cause. The Biden administration emphasised the need for continued research and investigation into the matter.

German donation benefits pediatric cancer patients in Cuba

A Germany-based humanitarian project called “Caricias,” led by Cuban Jorge Garcia, made a significant donation to a paediatric cancer ward at a hospital in Santa Clara, Cuba. The donation included medical supplies and technology, such as binocular microscopes and blood cell counters. Since 2018, “Caricias” has been supporting the Jose Luis Miranda paediatric hospital, providing various resources to improve the quality of life for children with cancer, amidst challenges posed by the US blockade. On average, 400 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer annually in Cuba, making it a leading cause of death in young children, ACN reports.