I was in Cuba this summer, staying at an all-inclusive hotel, and even there, I experienced rolling power outages, limited food options, and questionable water quality. It’s alarming to think that this is the reality for the average Cuban on a daily basis. It’s disheartening that Cuba’s deteriorating situation receives little media coverage, highlighting the struggles faced by millions in the country. The recent shutdown of schools and non-essential industries, coupled with widespread electricity shortages, paints a bleak picture of the state of affairs in Cuba.
The political system in Cuba is often characterized as a single-party authoritarian regime, where political opposition is not tolerated.… Continue reading
The government of Cuba has declared itself in a ‘war-time economy,’ a term usually reserved for extreme situations. What exactly does this mean for the people of Cuba? Well, the country ended 2023 with some alarming statistics – an inflation rate of 30%, a 2% contraction in the economy, and a depreciation of the Cuban currency by over 50% against major currencies like the dollar and euro in the informal market. This is definitely not a good sign.
Cuba is a communist country, so maybe this move is not entirely surprising. Being a command economy already, how can you really tell the difference when a ‘war-time economy’ is declared?… Continue reading
Russian warships en route to Cuba holding missile drills in the Atlantic – now that’s a headline that sparks a mixture of intrigue, fear, and skepticism. The four-ship grouping, including the impressive Gorshkov frigate and the nuclear-powered submarine Kazan, is making its way to Cuba. With the fleet also comprising the fleet oil tanker Pashin and the rescue tug Nikolay Chiker, it’s a display of military prowess that cannot be ignored.
It’s no secret that America must be watching closely as these Russian warships make their way toward Cuban waters. The question remains – what are the true intentions behind these missile drills in the Atlantic?… Continue reading
Russian warships entering Havana harbor under Washington’s watchful eye certainly raises eyebrows and sparks a mixture of reactions. The sight of a cruiser and a submarine, accompanied by two support ships, including a tug boat, seems almost comical. It’s amusing to note that Russian warships always travel with a tug, as if anticipating a breakdown or malfunction. It’s almost as if we are witnessing a historic event akin to Columbus and the Spanish Empire’s exploration.
The journey across the ocean without any mishaps is definitely an accomplishment for the Russian sailors, considering recent incidents of ships catching fire and sinking. The fact that they made it across unscathed deserves a nod of acknowledgement, albeit with a touch of sarcasm.… Continue reading
Russian warships arriving in Cuba in a supposed show of force has stirred up various reactions and opinions. From the US perspective, officials have downplayed the significance of this visit, stating that it does not pose a threat to the country. Some have even humorously pointed out that this might be a way for the Russian navy to evade Ukrainian drones, seeking safety in Cuban waters. And with a frigate, a nuclear-powered submarine, an oil tanker, and a rescue tug in tow, one might wonder if the real show of force is just the tugboat pulling the rest of the fleet along.… Continue reading
I can’t help but feel a mix of intrigue and concern at the news that Russian warships, including a nuclear-powered submarine, are set to arrive in Havana next week. It’s like a throwback to the Cold War era, reminiscent of the Cuban Missile Crisis that shook the world in the 1960s. The thought of such powerful military vessels making their way to Cuba certainly raises eyebrows.
Some may see this as a strategic move by Russia, a way to flex its military muscles and make a statement on the international stage. Others might view it as a risky maneuver, given the potential for escalation and unintended consequences.… Continue reading
Russian warships will arrive in Havana next week, say Cuban officials citing ‘friendly relations.” The news of Russian warships making their way to Havana has sparked a wave of speculation and mixed reactions from observers worldwide. Some view this as a strategic move to establish a stronger presence in the Western Hemisphere, while others see it as a mere show of military power in the midst of escalating tensions with Ukraine. As history has shown, the mere mention of Russian warships near Cuban shores can evoke memories of past conflicts and diplomatic standoffs.
The prospect of Russian warships docking in Havana raises questions about the motives behind such a maneuver.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker