In Progreso, Mexico, volunteers have come together to load small boats with essential supplies like rice and baby wipes for Cuba. This grassroots initiative aims to support the island facing severe economic challenges due to U.S. restrictions on oil imports, leading to power outages and a deepening crisis. The collection took place in Yucatán, roughly 800 kilometers from Havana, where dozens of volunteers displayed a hand-painted banner proclaiming, “Let Cuba Live.”
Marisela Vega, a volunteer, shared that initial efforts were met with obstacles in gathering aid, but as awareness grew, support increased significantly. Donations have included beans, baby formula, hygiene products, and medications. The boats are part of the “Nuestra America Convoy,” which calls on worldwide volunteers to send crucial items, particularly food and medicine, to a designated collection site in Cuba as a response to U.S. policies under President Trump amidst rising tensions between the two nations.
The U.S. has enforced an oil blockade against Cuba following changes in Venezuela’s leadership, significantly impacting Cuba’s economy. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized Cuba’s prolonged economic blockade and affirmed that its citizens should determine their governance autonomously. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel acknowledged the arrival of goods from Europe as part of this aid campaign, expressing gratitude for the support from people.
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