Mainstream news describe the economic situation is Cuba as extreme, see for example, this article by CNN: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/22/americas/cuba-crisis-energy-economy-intl-latam
Is that true? How to get a realistic account of the current situation in Cuba? Is United States blockade getting worse?
Edit. Added a mainstream source and re-stated my question in a more neutral tone.
Someone else will hopefully have more specific details on the situation.
In general the economic situation isn’t great due to the blockade since as an island nation they have to Import anything (like oil) that isn’t a natural resource on the island. Blackouts and other energy issues have been a problem due to that.
Trump recently increased the blockade and I know due to COVID their tourism industry was hit pretty hard.
Some silver linings to the situation:
China has provided solar panels that should help strengthen their grid and provide them a source of energy that can’t be blockaded.
They recently became a BRICS partner member which should hopefully give them some ability to trade even with the blockade.
Vietnam recently has raised millions in an ongoing effort to send donations to Cuba.
Edit:
Also if anyone is interested in learning more about Cuba and its history I’d recommend the podcast Blowback season 2.
Adding some links to explain how democracy and elections work in Cuba and why the government still has such large public support:
Good Video on the History of Cuban Elections and how they work.
Cuban voters on Election Day
Also Some other links below on recent news:
Pension Increases to help with the economic situation
On how they defy sanctions and still lead in healthcare
Good write-up!