Cuba denounced before the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) the impact of U.S. measures on its economy and pointed out that these restrict access to technology, industrial equipment, and financing.

During the 41st session of ECLAC taking place in the Dominican Republic, the Cuban Vice Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment, Deborah Rivas Saavedra, stated that facing sustainable development challenges for the island is aggravated by the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States.

According to her explanation, Washington's extraterritorial measures affect macroeconomic stability, industrial production, the energy transition, digitalization, and the population's quality of life, constituting the main obstacle to fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals and implementing public policies aimed at the people's well-being.

She also noted that recent financial, educational, and travel provisions by the White House establish direct actions and secondary measures attempting to isolate Cuba from international trade and deprive it of its daily sustenance and economic development.

Likewise, she stated that thousands of containers have been detained at various ports, many containing shipments of food, medicines, and medical devices, including those contracted by private Cuban companies.

Rivas Saavedra argued that the Cuban private sector—which some U.S. officials claim they wish to help develop—has been affected by these provisions, stating that its accounts in U.S. banks have been blocked.

The vice minister emphasized that Cuba has simultaneously undertaken deep economic and social transformations aimed at recovering its economy and addressing the needs of the population, whose well-being, she said, remains the primary objective.

In this context, she considered that regional integration acquires strategic importance for an effective management of these transformations and called for greater cohesion in Latin America and the Caribbean to strengthen value chains, expand markets, promote innovation, and improve international insertion.

She also reaffirmed her country's willingness to participate in regional, South-South, and Triangular cooperation initiatives to share experiences, strengthen institutional capacities, and advance toward a more just and equitable development. Furthermore, she defended the need for fairer, more inclusive, and accessible international financing that takes into account the vulnerabilities of middle-income countries and does not rely exclusively on gross domestic product as the criteria to access resources.

In her view, the region requires financial instruments that make it possible to drive productive transformation, digital transition, sustainable infrastructure, and macroeconomic resilience.

Rivas Saavedra assured that, despite sanctions and unilateral measures, the economic and social transformations driven by Cuba constitute an incentive for national and foreign business communities and will contribute to economic recovery.

She also highlighted Cuban cooperation in health, education, and other sectors, affirming that these results will continue to be shared.

Cuba participates in this dialogue with the conviction that the region's transformations can be achieved by incorporating cooperation, solidarity, and integration to address the ruptures characterizing this new era, she stressed.

On behalf of her country, she thanked ECLAC for convening this indispensable space to collectively reflect on the structural challenges facing the region and the opportunities that must be built jointly.

Argentines standing in solidarity with causes they consider just in Latin America remember today the iconic Cuban-Argentine commander Ernesto "Che" Guevara as they commemorate the 59th anniversary of his assassination in La Higuera, Bolivia, on October 8, 1967.

They link the symbolism of the defense of sovereignty championed by Che to the current political circumstances in Argentina, where the government promotes the unrestricted sale of land to foreigners—a measure opposed by popular and political forces.

"Fifty-nine years after Che's assassination, his thought is more alive than ever" is one of the slogans shared by members of the Morenense Association of Argentine-Cuban Friendship (Amaac), which they accompany with the motto "The land belongs to the people."

Members of Amaac organized a ceremony in San Martín Square in the Buenos Aires city of Moreno for Thursday night, October 8, where they will gather to honor the legendary guerrilla fighter and listen to local singer-songwriter Abelardo Martín.

Other organizations have scheduled commemorative events during these days, culminating in an Anti-Imperialist Rally on Sunday, October 11, at Ernesto Che Guevara Square in Rosario, where an imposing four-meter-tall bronze statue allegorical to the iconic revolutionary stands.

The sculptural work, inaugurated on June 14, 2008, to mark the 80th anniversary of Che's birth in his hometown, was sculpted by Argentine artist Andrés Zerneri.

It was a collective effort: it was cast using more than 75,000 bronze keys and objects donated by approximately 15,000 people from various parts of Argentina and around the world. The statue is installed on a pedestal in a square whose layout symbolizes a map of Latin America.

Council members from the ruling party La Libertad Avanza pressed in the Rosario Municipal Council to erase all references to Che in the city—the principal metropolis of Santa Fe province—such as removing the monument, changing the square's name, and removing his image from a mural in another square.

However, they met with firm opposition from other political factions in the legislative assembly and local social groups; even municipal authorities noted that they had no plans to alter public spaces in the city.

On October 8, 1967, Che Guevara was wounded in the leg and captured by the Bolivian army during a battle in the Yuro Ravine (or Churo) while leading a guerrilla movement in that Andean nation. He was detained along with other combatants from his unit and taken to a schoolhouse in the jungle village of La Higuera.

He was executed the following day on the orders of the Bolivian government. Participating in his execution was the so-called "Captain Félix Ramos," who was actually the prominent CIA agent of Cuban origin, Félix Rodríguez.

The Foreign Affairs Committee of the Italian Chamber of Deputies approved a resolution today urging its government to support the Cuban population in light of the severe damage inflicted on the country by the U.S. blockade.

“Italy is called upon, in compliance with the principles of its Constitution and its multilateral obligations, to promote the universal right to health, international cooperation, and the rejection of secondary sanctioning measures, in line with the vote cast during the 2025 UN General Assembly against the unilateral embargo on Cuba,” the document states.

In this regard, it calls for special attention to be paid to the supply of fuel for medical use, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and supplies designated for maternal and child healthcare.

The document, introduced by the Democratic Party and passed unanimously, acknowledges the impact of unilateral coercive U.S. measures and calls for the promotion of new bilateral and multilateral cooperation initiatives to support the Cuban people.

The resolution calls for continued support for the island's population, emphasizing assistance for high-risk pregnant women, newborns, minors, and the chronically ill, while exploring alternative channels to overcome current air traffic limitations.

It also outlines the impact on the Caribbean nation of unilateral coercive measures applied by successive U.S. administrations over the past 65 years.

Furthermore, it expands on the damage caused to the Cuban population by the energy blockade implemented by Washington since January of this year, along with numerous measures enforced in recent months aimed at obstructing access to financing and preventing fuel from entering the island.

The document warns that two executive orders signed by President Donald Trump on January 29 and May 1, 2026, have led to dramatic humanitarian, economic, and social consequences for a population severely affected by U.S. restrictions.

The resolution incorporates findings gathered by a delegation of Italian and European parliamentarians, local authorities, and civil society associations that traveled to Cuba from September 23 to 28 to deliver assistance and observe firsthand the damage caused by the economic, commercial, and financial blockade.

Additionally, it recognizes the contributions of Cuban healthcare professionals who traveled to Italy during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights ongoing cooperation in the region of Calabria, where hundreds of doctors from the island assist in operating hospital services.

The approval of this resolution confirms that Cuba's situation, resulting from the impact of the U.S. blockade, is gaining momentum within Italian parliamentary and political debate.

This comes ahead of the upcoming consideration, within the framework of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, of the resolution submitted by Cuba demanding an end to the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by Washington.

The Avispas (Wasps), managed by Idalberto Lamote, turned the Guillermón Moncada Stadium into an impenetrable fortress during their first four games. They were powered by three home runs, bringing their season total to 15—the highest mark in the championship.

Carlos Monier, Yoel Yanqui, and Edilse Silva—the latter hitting a grand slam—spearheaded the damage against the opposing pitching staff with a combined total of 10 runs driven in, securing the Santiago squad firmly at the top of the Eastern Zone.

Osvaldo Acuña claimed the victory, while Oriolvis Cobas took the loss.

The day also saw Sancti Spíritus lose its undefeated record, falling 5-4 to Camagüey at José Antonio Huelga Stadium, where Edgar Suárez earned the win and José Santos suffered the defeat.

Hubert Sánchez shined for the Toros (Bulls) by going 4-for-4 with a double, a performance that contributed to the first setback for Sancti Spíritus, which now holds a 3-1 record.

Meanwhile, Granma and Las Tunas closed out their weekly matchups with victories to split their respective series.

The Alazanes (Stallions) edged the Cachorros (Pups) of Holguín 4-3 at Calixto García Stadium, despite a home run by Nelson Batista. Concurrently, the Leñadores (Lumberjacks) defeated Ciego de Ávila 19-12 at Julio Antonio Mella Stadium in a game marked by heavy offensive production.

Yordanis Alarcón and Luis Pérez launched homers for Las Tunas, while Ronaldo Castillo, Asniel Jiménez, and George Contreras went deep for the Tigres (Tigers).

In the Western Zone, Pinar del Río, Artemisa, and Matanzas each collected their third victories to share first place.

The Vegueros (Tobacco Growers) staged another high-octane offensive display at Latinoamericano Stadium, hammering 22 hits to defeat Industriales 17-12, supported by round-trippers from Jorge Yoan Rojas and Jesús Arcia.

Juan Manuel Pérez delivered a standout performance with five consecutive doubles and four runs driven in, a streak that established a new record for Cuban national championships.

Meanwhile, Artemisa dispatched Isla de la Juventud in a 16-6 knockout behind a 15-hit attack that featured home runs from Yansue Moré and Yadier Ruiz. Frank David González hit his third home run of the season for the losing side, moving into a tie for the league lead in that category.

Matanzas defeated Cienfuegos 6-4 at Victoria de Girón Stadium, with Luis Manuel Hernández earning the win and Naykel Cruz securing his third save, keeping him atop that department.

In the final game of the slate, Villa Clara defeated Mayabeque 9-4 at Nelson Fernández Stadium to tie their series at two wins apiece, fueled by home runs from Mailon Tomás Alonso for the Leopardos (Leopards) and Frank Alonso for the Huracanes (Hurricanes).

The community will serve as the primary stage for the Jornada de la Cultura Cubana (Days of Cuban Culture), dedicated to the centenary of the historic leader of the Revolution, Fidel Castro, and the 50th anniversary of the Ministry of Culture (Mincult), the organizing committee announced today.

From October 10 to 20, participating organizations will ensure access to a diverse, inclusive, and decentralized program featuring cultural expeditions, artistic performances, audiovisual screenings, and activities across urban and rural areas throughout the nation.

The schedule will encompass various thematic days, with programming centered on concert music, the Cuban educational system, the legacy of founding Mincult Minister Armando Hart, personnel associated with the ministry's foundational system, and poetry.

Additionally, honors and decorations are slated to be presented to various cultural figures.

The capital will host a special screening of the feature film "Neurótica Anónima" (2025), a concert by the National Symphony Orchestra, and a gala performance by the National Ballet of Cuba, among other events.

Across the rest of the country, Matanzas will hold the main ceremony for the José Martí Brigades of Art Instructors; Holguín will celebrate the Fiesta de la Cultura Iberoamericana; Sancti Spíritus will host the Encuentro de Agrupaciones Centenarias; Villa Clara will hold the Encuentro de Bandas de Concierto; and Pinar del Río will stage the Salón Provincial 20 de Octubre, alongside other gatherings.

The ten days of festivities will coincide with the 32nd edition of the Fiesta de la Cubanía, the 34th Crisol de la Nacionalidad Cubana Theoretical Event, and the 39th Festival of Cuban and International Cinema, all held in the city of Bayamo, in the eastern province of Granma.

Dalia Duarte, an expert in Cultural Policies at Mincult, explained that the central activities will open with a ceremony at the La Demajagua historical site in Granma, followed by the heritage tour "Cantares por la Ruta de Céspedes," a screening of the Cuban film "El Camino," and subsequent cultural expeditions across all municipalities.

Alongside Duarte, Mailin Elías, representing the organizing committee of the Fiesta de la Cubanía; Yasel Toledo, president of the Asociación Hermanos Saíz (AHS); and Carlos Castillo, national president of the José Martí Brigades, provided an overview of the main program.

The Jornada de la Cultura extends its commemorative focus to the anniversaries of the AHS (40th), the José Martí Brigade of Art Instructors (22nd), the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (65th), the University of the Arts (50th), Fidel Castro's landmark address "Palabras a los Intelectuales," as well as the centenaries of filmmaker Julio García Espinosa and musician Pacho Alonso.

Each honored organization features its own cultural program, integrated into the commemoration of National Culture Day, which marks the date the national anthem was first sung on October 20, 1868.

After the tribute at the Colón Cemetery to the martyrs of Barbados, the First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Party and President of the Republic, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, held an exchange with a representation of relatives of the victims of state terrorism, and young athletes who are heirs to the members of the National Fencing Team whose lives were destroyed by the bombs of that October 6, 1976.

Also present at the meeting were Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, Secretary of Organization of the Central Committee Roberto Morales Ojeda, and Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, all members of the Political Bureau, as well as officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officers of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) and the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), and workers of the Cuban Aviation Corporation.

During an appearance on the radio program Criterio Compartido, the head of state noted that the Cuban population is aging as part of demographic dynamics and that the number of elderly people is growing—a group with problems typical of those ages that require attention.

He added that there are situations of "regrettable accumulated inequalities" that have caused disadvantages for some people, families, and communities.

"That is not the humanist vocation of the Revolution," the president expressed, indicating that Cuba's principles aim to overcome those inequalities, attend to everyone, and defend equity.

The president recalled that at the conclusion of the National Assembly of People's Power where the transformations were approved, he insisted that these were economic and social, with a social vision to strengthen programs that help mitigate and reduce those inequalities to the maximum.

In this line, the president reported that more than 30 social programs are being applied to address family problems, in addition to actions to address precariousness—a topic within the thematic axes defended in the transformations.

Regarding problems with banking, the president noted that stability in the national electrical system has a direct impact.

He announced that there is a project to install photovoltaic systems in all bank branches, which will guarantee services and allow banks to function.

The president indicated that many times there are no forms of payment or commercialization other than electronic means, but "it is important to advance and consolidate the foundational concepts of banking because it provides more traceability and transparency."

The echo of Lionel Messi's final goodbye still resounds today in Buenos Aires, where an entire generation tries to come to terms with the fact that the number 10 will no longer wear the Argentine jersey.

The Monumental became a temple of memory, filled with thousands of voices that over the years saw him fall, rise, suffer, and finally touch glory, until they bid him farewell in tears as heroes are bid farewell.

At the 10th minute, the friendly match against Benin was stopped and the entire stadium rose to pay tribute, while Messi, with moist eyes, contemplated for the last time those stands that had so many times pronounced his name.

Even the rival players joined the ovation, because the greatness of the Rosario-born player long ago ceased to belong solely to Argentina.

Then football arrived, his eternal refuge, and Messi said goodbye as his history demands: a corner for Nicolás Otamendi's goal, an assist for Nico Paz, and finally a converted penalty to close with the 126th goal of his international career.

It was the last of his 208 matches with the Albiceleste, a monumental figure that is barely enough to measure an adventure of more than two decades marked by defeats, criticism, tears, and a reward that seemed destined never to arrive.

Copa América, Finalissima, World Cup, and another Copa América transformed that old promise from Rosario into the captain who returned Argentina to the pinnacle of football, but his legacy transcends any trophy case.

Because Messi did not only win titles: he turned his perseverance into a form of resistance and taught that even heroes can fall, be questioned, and rise again.

Last night he walked on the grass with his children, embraced his teammates, and raised his arms toward the stands, while an entire nation tried to freeze the final instant.

Then he took the microphone, remembered his father, confessed that he did not want to leave, and pronounced the phrase that finally broke the night: playing for Argentina, he said, was the most beautiful thing that could happen to him. And then he left. Silence remains after the shout, the jersey without its owner, and a question that will take generations to answer: how do you say goodbye to someone who already belongs forever to history?

Messi left the national team. The legend, however, is only just beginning.

Cuba does not receive a single cent for medical cooperation with Uruguay and the services of an ophthalmological brigade in the South American country, former Deputy Minister of Social Development María Olivera said here today.

Olivera, who is also a former president of the Chamber of Deputies, was part of the leadership of the Ministry of Social Development (Mides) when Cuba and Uruguay were preparing the agreement that 19 years later restored sight to thousands of Uruguayans, with some 123,000 surgical interventions.

Olivera made statements to the public television channel that amended previous remarks by Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin regarding changes to the bilateral agreement following criticism from the U.S. government.

According to Lubetkin, the funds paid for the work of the Cuban medical brigade will be directed to the doctors and not to the island's government.

Uruguay does not pay the Cuban government for the arrival of this solidarity brigade, Olivera rectified.

She recalled that in 2005 and until 2007 some three thousand Uruguayans traveled to Cuba to be treated under Operation Miracle, most of them operated on for cataracts.

The first trips were from Buenos Aires because Cubana de Aviación did not reach Montevideo, she recalls. She adds that many of them lived in poor settlements, lacked passports and traveled with their identity cards.

In reality, the first thing agreed upon was the existence of a reference hospital center, the "José Martí" Eye Hospital, which was fully equipped by Cuba.

From there — she continues — the first brigades began, for which Uruguay does not pay the Cuban government.

She explained that in practice the Social Security Bank deposits 250,000 dollars in an account at the Bank of the Republic. The head of the medical brigade pays from that money the airline tickets for annual vacations to the island, the payment for excess baggage and the stipend that each brigade member (about twenty) receives.

In turn, the State Health Services Administration takes care of the lodging, food and transportation of the Cuban collaborators, who carry out screenings throughout the country.

María Olivera considers that this cooperation "has been very important for Uruguayan society. As someone told her: 'I hadn't seen colors for a long time,' or another: 'Now I see my grandchildren.'"

There was a man who went on the first trip to Cuba and had lost his job because of vision loss, because he was poor, because he did not have three thousand dollars or 1,500 dollars to pay for an operation. Later he joined a drivers' cooperative, related the former deputy secretary of Mides.

The bilateral agreement promoted free care for those who do not have the economic resources to cover the costs of ophthalmological services, in order to restore or improve the vision of Uruguayan citizens.

As of August 2026, more than 160 Cuban doctors in seven brigades had passed through the country. By that date, the Caribbean experts had handled 956,433 consultations, 222,873 screenings and 122,928 surgeries.

Internationally, Operation Miracle, promoted at the time by Presidents Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez, benefited more than six million people who regained their sight. From its beginnings it drew Washington's animosity.

The president of Cuba's Casa de las Américas, Abel Prieto, described today's discussion in the capital with Italians, mostly youth, regarding the significance of Ernesto Che Guevara as inspiring for its ethical depth.

During the event, convened by the Network of Communists with participation from the Student Opposition of Alternative (OSA) and Cambiare Rotta, Organization of Communist Youth, speakers also included Cuban Ambassador Jorge Luis Cepero and academic Luciano Vasapollo.

In statements to Prensa Latina, Prieto highlighted the commitment of the young attendees in their struggle for an alternative in a “terrible world,” noting that “they are anti-imperialists, anti-colonialists, and proudly communists.”

The Cuban writer and essayist stressed the motivating nature of the exchange, particularly the questions posed by the youth, who showed keen interest in Che's concept of the “New Man” and the ongoing battle in culture and communication, just days ahead of October 9, marking 59 years since his assassination in Bolivia.

“They are fully engaged in matters of paramount importance,” stated Prieto, who is also a deputy in the National Assembly of People's Power. He described the thoughts and figure of the Argentine-Cuban guerrilla as “essential” today, “because he represents the vanguard not only in political terms, but in moral terms as well.”

University professor Luciano Vasapollo likewise drew attention to the enduring relevance of Che's thought and work, noting it is necessary to teach young people “that Che is not just a t-shirt to be worn, but a contemporary ethical, economic, and political ideal.”

During the two-hour dialogue, the leader of the Network of Communists stated that preserving Che's ideas and sharing them with youth offers a perspective of socialist democracy against the rise of the international right wing.

Regarding this trend, Prieto referred to the dangers surrounding the fascist-leaning right established in several Latin American governments, while pointing to the results of the first round in Sunday's presidential election in Brazil.

Furthermore, he denounced the actions of U.S. President Donald Trump and his harsh policies against the Cuban population, a silent warfare that Cuban authorities have repeatedly denounced before the United Nations General Assembly and other international forums.

The president of Casa de las Américas recounted some of the daily hardships faced by Cubans, including the consequences of power outages triggered by unilateral measures imposed by Washington.

Illustrating the impact of the embargo on the island, the Cuban ambassador noted how Cuba's infant mortality rate increased significantly, reaching 9.9 deaths per 1,000 live births toward the end of 2025—more than double the country's historical rate of around four per 1,000 recorded in previous years.

The panelists also cited the damage caused by U.S. commercial and financial sanctions, which prevent the acquisition of medicines and medical supplies, alongside the naval encirclement hindering fuel imports into the country.

Throughout the exchange, participants reaffirmed the importance of raising public awareness about the reality in Cuba and the damage inflicted by Washington's hostile policies in the face of manipulation campaigns across social media and right-wing controlled outlets.

Similarly, speakers emphasized the vital role of international solidarity with Cuba, which Abel Prieto acknowledged has intensified in response to the pressure and falsehoods of U.S. imperialism.

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HAVANA — Cuba has eased import rules for individuals by allowing commercial clearance for goods that exceed non-commercial limits, official sources reported today in Havana.

The measure is contained in Resolution 340 of the General Customs of the Republic, which implements the provisions of Decree-Law 132 and establishes a seven-day period for its implementation, explained Nelson Enrique Cordovés, head of the customs authority.

Speaking on the television program Mesa Redonda, the official specified that the new regulation does not alter existing limits for non-commercial imports. Those remain capped at $1,000 for passengers and $500 for shipments, alongside established quantity limits for specific items.

The key change allows citizens to opt to import surplus goods as commercial items and pay the corresponding customs duties in U.S. dollars.

Under this system, an individual who exceeds the established limit will receive an initial clearance for the portion authorized as non-commercial import, followed by a second invoice for the remaining items, payable in foreign currency.

Cordovés clarified that this option is voluntary. If a traveler chooses not to opt for commercial clearance and pay the duties in dollars, the surplus goods remain subject to seizure under existing rules.

The regulation also establishes that certain products may be classified as commercial items by their very nature, even if their total value falls within the $1,000 limit. As an example, the head of customs cited display cases used to exhibit merchandise in small businesses.

Resolution 340 consolidates into a single legal text provisions previously contained in Resolutions 175, 170, and 312 of the General Customs of the Republic, including regulations regarding the import of mopeds, combustion tricycles, and fully electric vehicles.

For his part, Minister of Finance and Prices Vladimir Regueiro explained that tariff rates will be updated gradually. For travelers, tariffs will be set at 15 percent up to $2,000, 20 percent on the excess up to $4,000, 25 percent up to $6,000, and 30 percent above that amount.

Authorities confirmed that conditions have been established at airports and other clearance points to implement the new provisions, while the differentiated clearance service will feature an updated fee schedule payable in foreign currency.

The new regulations, published yesterday in Official Gazette No. 83, correspond to Transformation 158, one of ten measures approved under Strategy 19, dedicated to commerce, gastronomy, and services.

Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade Inalvis Smith noted that the measure was introduced in response to the tightening of U.S. government executive orders.

Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba (LADC) and the Embassy of Spain invite the public on October 12 at 3:00 p.m. at the Martí Theatre to the Grand Gala for Hispanicity Day, which exalts the heritage that forms an essential part of the culture of this Caribbean nation and many other countries across the continent.

According to information released by the organizers, the program will feature excerpts from the shows "Fuerza y Compás" and "Habana Fénix," alongside other choreographic pieces.

The LADC musical ensemble, under the direction of Carmen Souto, will add brilliance to this Gala headlined by the company, which on October 19 will mark 35 years since its founding by director, teacher, and choreographer Lizt Alfonso. For the occasion, Alfonso has invited LADC's Children's and Youth Ballets as well as the Teaching Artistic Group.

The so-called Hispanicity Day or National Day of Spain originates on October 12, 1492, when Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas—an event that, regardless of ample ethical, moral, and humanistic questions, altered the course of history for the Spanish metropolis and the world, including its culture.

An inseparable part of that legacy is dance, cultivated by LADC with passion and pride as a synthesis of the mixed-heritage richness that this encounter bequeathed.

Cuba warned of the unpredictable global consequences that a U.S. military aggression would bring today, noting that it "would cause a humanitarian catastrophe." During her address before the Plenary of the 12th Ibero-American Parliamentary Forum in Madrid, the Vice President of the Cuban National Assembly of People's Power (ANPP), Ana María Mari Machado, emphasized that such an action "would destabilize the region of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace."

Along these lines, the official, who also serves as Vice President of the Council of State, denounced the "silent genocide and collective punishment against the Cuban people through the economic, commercial, and financial blockade" maintained by the U.S. government, which she stated has been "reinforced in recent months to extreme and unprecedented levels."

In this regard, she pointed to the imposition of an energy siege on Cuba and a comprehensive scheme of secondary sanctions "against any third-country entity that maintains investments or commercial or financial ties with Cuban entities, under the absurd pretext that Cuba is a threat to the national security of the United States."

Mari Machado added that "an additional element has been the use of increasingly threatening and warlike rhetoric against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cuba."

The ANPP Vice President argued that "the cost of this ruthless economic war against the Cuban people is incalculable," providing two specific examples.

She noted that infant mortality on the Caribbean island has more than doubled, rising from 4.4 to 9.9 per thousand live births.

Furthermore, she highlighted that thousands of shipping containers containing food, medicine, and other essential supplies "are currently paralyzed in various ports around the world, despite most having been contracted and paid for by private Cuban companies, due to threats against shipping companies registered in various countries."

She likewise called attention to the fact that "behind these disruptions are human lives, victims of a policy designed to inflict suffering and anguish" on the nation.

Mari Machado expressed gratitude for the statements of support and solidarity received from legislative bodies, parliamentary friendship groups, and lawmakers "denouncing the aggressive escalation" by Washington against Cuba.

"We reiterate, on behalf of our people: Cuba is not a threat; the blockade is! We are a nation of peace. We demand an end to the blockade, the energy siege, and all unilateral coercive measures against our country," she declared.

In another section of her speech, she praised the importance of the Ibero-American Parliamentary Forum, stating her conviction that "this gathering serves as another excellent opportunity for rapprochement, unity, and solidarity among our peoples, who have been united for centuries by unbreakable bonds."

Mari Machado also addressed the volatile international environment, which she said "requires us to act accordingly, making effective use of parliamentary diplomacy in defense of peace, multilateralism, and respect for the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and International Law."

During the exchange, the president reiterated the premise that for the Government, economic growth is meaningless if it does not have a direct impact on social development, according to a report published on the Presidency's website.

"For us, it makes no sense to generate economic wealth if it does not impact and support social programs, and, above all, if that wealth is not distributed under a concept of social justice," Díaz-Canel stated.

He pointed out that it is precisely social justice that gives a socialist character to the 176 Economic and Social Transformations the country is implementing.

"Social justice is what differentiates us from the shock policies of capitalism; those adopted by those who attack us, blockade us, and impose an energy siege on us," reflected the head of state.

At the meeting, the protagonism of the people and their grassroots organizations in applying these changes within communities was highlighted, as well as the social responsibility that state and non-state economic actors must assume.

The President of the Republic stressed that these transformations have followed a process of debate that began with the membership of the Party and the Young Communist League, and extends to workplaces and communities where neighborhood organizations play a fundamental role.

Regarding the importance of control and popular participation, Díaz-Canel underscored that institutions linked to the social sphere must guarantee that economic flexibilization does not deepen inequalities and that structural changes benefit the most vulnerable sectors.

The also First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba insisted that all actors must understand their role and contribution in the defense of social justice.

"No institution should limit itself to its specific function; it is necessary to integrate into a network of articulation with the rest to truly achieve social justice," he stressed.

In the president's opinion, the key lies in interdisciplinary coordination at all levels, from the national to the community level, and he emphasized that "the longing for social justice cannot remain only in discourse."

He also proposed a set of concepts to guide daily work in the neighborhoods and urged focusing efforts on people with the greatest needs through differentiated attention.

As for economic actors—both state and private—he clarified that they cannot be considered solely as financial entities, but also as social actors.

Díaz-Canel indicated that another inescapable principle of the process is that "social protection must be accessible and not bureaucratic," while warning that what cannot be fulfilled due to lack of resources must not be promised.

Finally, he assured that these spaces for dialogue are stimulating and demonstrate that, even under the effects of the prolonged blockade and the energy siege imposed by the United States, the country works continuously to build a better society.

The Italian-Cuban film Baracoa, by director Luis Ernesto Doñas, receives praise during its run at the Lucca Film Festival in Italy, news that today fills admirers of the seventh art in the Caribbean country with satisfaction.

It is always a pride to hear one of the great figures of world cinema like Giancarlo Giannini praise the actors Carlos Luis González and Yadier Fernández, and the entire Cuban team of our shared adventure, the filmmaker stated.

From the Cuban Institute of Art and Film Industry (Icaic), they celebrate this national achievement and the presence of the production team at the 22nd edition of the important international event.

The special screening of Baracoa at the event, on September 29, featured the participation of Doñas, producer Francesco Papa and Giannini, who is part of the film's cast.

According to the synopsis, the film explores the distant relationship of Felipe (Giannini), an Italian revolutionary who was a friend of leader Fidel Castro, with his son Pepe, characterized by his homophobic prejudices, and the special bond he forms with his doctor Jimmy, who at night works as the drag queen Estrellita.

After Felipe's death, his son and the doctor take a car trip from Havana to the city of Baracoa, at the eastern end of the country, in a journey through contemporary Cuba through two characters with opposing positions.

Prior to its presentation at the Italian festival, which runs until October 4, Baracoa won the Súmate diversity collateral award at the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema in Havana.

In addition, it participated out of competition at the Taormina Film Festival in Italy.

A group of six Cuban para powerlifters will seek their qualification for the Lima 2027 Parapan American Games starting next October 4, the sports website JIT reported today.

The national delegation, made up of three athletes of each sex, will compete from October 4 to 8 in the Parapan American Open Para Powerlifting Championship in Mexico, a competition that will award places for Lima 2027.

Designated by World Para Powerlifting as the main event of the year for the Americas region within the qualification process for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games, it will feature Paralympic and world champions and record holders.

The contest will bring together around 190 athletes from 21 countries at the National Center for the Development of Sports Talents and High Performance, in the Mexican capital.

According to its organizers, the event, which is mandatory for qualification for the Games under the five rings of Los Angeles, will bring together renowned figures in weightlifting on the continent.

Cuba once again turned the diamond at the Simone Piani Stadium into champion territory today by knocking out the Czech Republic 18-0 and maintaining its undefeated record at the World Blind Baseball Cup.

The reigning world champion needed only five innings to settle a duel that began to tilt in the second chapter, when five runs opened the gap and announced another day of offensive abundance.

History repeated itself in the fourth episode, with an identical cluster that raised the lead and left the Europeans facing a mountain too high to climb.

And when there was still one last blow to deliver, Cuba gathered another five runs in the fifth inning to activate the mercy rule and put an end to the challenge.

The Antilleans totaled 29 hits, with Yaniel Pérez, who drove in six runs and had six hits, and Maikel Meriño, author of eight hits and three RBIs, as the main protagonists.

Maikel Rodríguez added six hits and five RBIs, while Pedro Díaz connected for another six hits in an offensive that found gaps all over the field.

The result allows Cuba to preserve a perfect record after two appearances, following yesterday's 13-0 win over the United States, and confirms the response capacity of a team that arrived in Italy with the world crown in its trophy case.

The Czech Republic, which had defeated Great Britain 7-6 in its debut, now stands with a record of one win and one loss within Group A.

The next stop for the Cubans will be tomorrow against Great Britain, a team that will face the United States today, both seeking to open their win column in the tournament.

With two knockouts in its first appearances, Cuba has already made clear that defending the title will not be a silent task: the champion has begun to make noise with the bat.

As part of the U.S. government's maximum pressure campaign, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the Treasury Department published today an official alert on the expansion of sanctions and restrictions against Cuba.

The regulatory framework, to be published this Wednesday in the Federal Register, reviews the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (CACR) to implement part of President Donald Trump's foreign policy toward Cuba, in particular Executive Order 14404 of last May 1, which expands sanctions in an attempt to isolate Cuba from international trade.

According to the measures, upon their entry into force this September 30, banks subject to U.S. jurisdiction will be prohibited from so-called "U-Turn" banking transactions.

The authorization that allowed U.S. banking institutions to open and maintain an account exclusively in the name of a Cuban citizen who is an independent private-sector entrepreneur will also be eliminated.

Unless they possess a separate authorization, banking institutions subject to U.S. jurisdiction are obligated to immediately block such funds and accounts, and will need a specific OFAC license to unblock them.

Furthermore, the authorization related to attending or organizing professional meetings or conferences in Cuba is eliminated.

OFAC likewise limits the scope of authorization for U.S. academic institutions and their faculty, staff, and students regarding certain transactions related to the educational sector involving Cuba.

The restrictions are part of the brutal policy of maximum pressure—and maximum aggression, as authorities on the island characterize it—of the Trump administration since January of this year.

In a further twist, it then declared a national emergency regarding Cuba on the supposition that the Caribbean country constitutes a threat to U.S. national security, something the Cuban government has roundly denied.

Trump, with his order, prohibited Cuba's access to oil purchases under threat to third parties of imposing steep tariffs, after which other provisions have followed so far in 2026 that impact all sectors in the Greater Antilles.

"It is evident that there is no progress," stated Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío in a recent interview granted to Prensa Latina, regarding direct communications and in-person meetings in recent months between the governments of Cuba and the United States.

No progress can be identified when the U.S. government "frequently imposes, weekly or biweekly, new coercive measures of punishment against the Cuban people and continues to reinforce the brutal economic war."