About our Cuba News
Latest news on Cuba, covering politics, US relations, economy, human rights, culture, tourism, and developments in the Caribbean island nation.
Cuba, officially the Republic of Cuba, is a Caribbean island nation with a population of over 11 million, known for its revolutionary history and distinctive socialist system. The capital, Havana, remains an iconic city rich in colonial architecture and cultural heritage. President Miguel Díaz-Canel leads the country, having assumed office in 2019 and serving as First Secretary of the Communist Party since 2021, marking the first non-Castro leadership since 1959.
The nation faces a severe economic crisis marked by chronic electricity blackouts, with outages extending up to 20 hours daily in some regions. The collapse of Cuba's aging power infrastructure, fuel shortages, and reduced oil supplies from Venezuela have created what officials describe as the worst crisis since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Tourism arrivals have plummeted by over 20 percent, while inflation erodes living standards and basic food shortages persist across the island.
Human rights remain a contentious issue. Following the July 2021 protests, hundreds of demonstrators were detained, with many still imprisoned despite releases negotiated through Vatican mediation in early 2025. International organisations document concerns about prison conditions, arbitrary detention, and restrictions on freedom of expression. The Cuban government maintains these measures are necessary for stability, while critics cite systematic repression of dissent.
Cuba's history centres on the 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro, which overthrew Fulgencio Batista's regime. The revolution transformed Cuba into a socialist state aligned with the Soviet Union, surviving through periods of prosperity and hardship. The culture thrives despite economic challenges, with world-renowned music, dance, and arts reflecting the island's African, Spanish, and Caribbean heritage. Baseball remains the national passion, while literary and cinematic traditions continue to flourish.
Stay informed about Cuba's evolving political landscape, economic challenges, and social developments through our NewsNow feed. We provide comprehensive coverage from trusted sources, ensuring you receive timely updates on this historically significant Caribbean nation as it navigates complex domestic and international pressures.