U.S. sanctions push Cuba to the brink, with healthcare at risk
Summary
U.S. restrictions are making it harder for Cuban hospitals to obtain food, medicine and equipment, as foreign companies fear penalties for doing business with Cuba. Doctors report shortages, unreliable power and staff losses, while Cuba’s economic and infrastructure problems predate the latest sanctions.Key Facts
- Doctors at a Havana pediatric hospital said a malnourished 2-month-old needed specialized formula that was difficult to obtain.
- The U.S. has maintained a trade embargo on Cuba for decades, and President Donald Trump has threatened sanctions against businesses that deal with the Cuban government.
- Washington says it does not intend to restrict food and medical supplies, but some foreign companies have avoided selling them to Cuba because they fear U.S. penalties.
- Cuban officials said only one oil tanker had reached the island since early January, contributing to power problems.
- Hospital doctors said power interruptions can endanger patients, and reported finishing some operations by cellphone light when generators fail.
- Doctors reported severe shortages of cancer drugs, anesthetics and laboratory equipment, including a 68-day wait for a component needed for a toddler’s surgery.
- Cuban doctors said low pay and difficult conditions have led many medical workers to leave the profession or the country.
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