Cuban economy

Cuba admits to massive emigration wave: a million people left in two years amid crisis

The news of a million people leaving Cuba in just two years is staggering. That’s 10% of the total population, a number that is hard to comprehend. It is indicative of a country in crisis, where people are desperate to escape the hardships and uncertainties that they face every day. This mass exodus is not just a brain drain or a usual refugee wave scenario; it is a sign of total collapse.

Having family roots in Cuba, it pains me to see the country in such a dire situation. My family emigrated in the mid-90s, and over the past 30 years, we have lost touch with all our remaining relatives on the island.… Continue reading

The government of Cuba declares itself in a ‘war-time economy’

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

Cubans lured to Russian army by high pay and passports

I can’t fathom the desperation that would drive someone to accept a mere $2k a month to go fight in a foreign conflict. The idea of willingly putting oneself in harm’s way for a paycheck and a passport is beyond my comprehension. It’s disheartening to see young Cubans being lured into the Russian army with promises of high pay and foreign passports.

The fact that Russia is preying on vulnerable populations from countries like Cuba, Nigeria, and Nepal, offering false incentives to join their military ranks, is a despicable act. The Russian government’s lack of morality and disregard for consequences in their pursuit of gaining an advantage is appalling.… Continue reading