President Biden has urged congressional leaders to pass a foreign aid package in response to Iran's attack on Israel. Iran and its proxies launched over 300 rockets towards Israel, raising concerns of a wider conflict. Meanwhile, former President Trump's trial in New York City, related to hush-money payments, has begun with jury selection. Experts criticize Biden's approach to Iran, claiming it emboldened Tehran. Additionally, Italy's antitrust regulator is investigating Ryanair, and Japan's JERA Co. has established a renewables-focused unit in Britain.

Petrol prices in Cuba have soared by 500 percent since Friday, as part of the government's major stabilization plan to address the economic crisis. Long queues at petrol stations have become a common sight, with motorists spending hours waiting to refuel. The price hike, delayed by a month, is due to Cuba importing oil at market prices while selling it domestically at much lower rates, leading to a substantial fiscal deficit. Cubans, already struggling with inflation and stagnant wages, are greatly concerned about the increased cost of petrol.

The article discusses the hiring of foreign workers, specifically from India, by the French construction group Bouygues for the restoration of the Manzana de Gomez hotel in Havana, Cuba. This marks a significant change in Cuban policy, allowing a multinational to directly hire foreign labor on a large scale, bypassing the state labor agencies that typically mediate such employment. The Indian workers are paid significantly more than their Cuban counterparts, earning over $1,500 per month compared to the average Cuban salary of $30. The article explores the potential for resentment among Cubans due to this wage disparity and the broader implications for Cuba's socialist system as it opens up to foreign investment and capitalist practices. It also touches on the challenges and experiences of the Indian workers in Cuba.

In Cuba, independent journalists like Pedro Sosa, who graduated from the University of Havana and worked for El Toque and El Estornudo, face increasing repression from the state. Despite the blossoming of independent media since the introduction of relatively uncensored mobile internet in 2018, journalists are now regularly detained, and their equipment seized. A new criminal code threatens up to 10 years in prison for reporters receiving foreign financing, which Amnesty International has criticized. The US has a history of financing media in Cuba as part of its diplomatic strategy, and the Biden administration continues to spend on 'democracy promotion' programs. Cuban officials argue their treatment of journalists is not as severe as in other Latin American countries, but many journalists have been pressured into exile due to state security actions.

Cuba is experiencing its largest migration since Fidel Castro's rise to power, driven by severe economic conditions exacerbated by the pandemic and strict US sanctions. The crisis has led to food shortages, long queues for scarce medical supplies, and frequent power outages. In the past year, nearly 250,000 Cubans have emigrated to the US, surpassing the Mariel boatlift and the 1994 rafter crisis. The Biden administration is slowly changing Trump's policies, but faces challenges from Cuban-American voters and concerns over human rights in Cuba. The Cuban government blames US sanctions for the economic situation and uses migration as a release valve for discontent. The demographic impact on Cuba is severe, with a significant brain drain and an aging population. The US is taking steps to address the migration by resuming consular services in Havana and lifting remittance limits.

Cuba is experiencing its largest migration since Fidel Castro's rise to power, driven by severe economic conditions exacerbated by the pandemic and strict US sanctions. The crisis has led to widespread poverty, scarcity of food and medicine, and frequent power outages. In the past year, nearly 250,000 Cubans have migrated to the US, surpassing the Mariel exodus of 1980 and the 1994 rafter crisis. The Biden administration faces political risks due to the surge in migration, which is also a national security concern. While some Trump-era policies have been reversed, significant changes to sanctions are not being discussed. The Cuban government blames US sanctions and the Cuban Adjustment Act for the migration, while also using it as a release valve for dissent. The demographic impact on Cuba is severe, with a significant brain drain and an aging population. The US has announced the resumption of consular services in Havana and the issuance of visas, while Cuba agreed to accept deported citizens, in efforts to manage the migration surge.

Cuba is experiencing its largest exodus since Fidel Castro's rise to power over half a century ago, driven by worsening poverty and despair. The economic crisis has been exacerbated by stricter U.S. sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic, which has hit Cuba's vital tourism industry. Food has become scarcer and more expensive, pharmacy lines start before dawn due to limited supplies, and millions are experiencing daily power outages. Roger García Ordaz from Baracoa has attempted to flee Cuba 11 times by sea and vows to continue until he succeeds.

Cuba is experiencing its largest exodus since Fidel Castro's rise to power, driven by deepening poverty and the impact of US sanctions and the Covid-19 pandemic. Nearly 250,000 Cubans have migrated to the United States, surpassing the Mariel boatlift and the 1994 rafter crisis. The ongoing migration is compared to a wartime exodus and poses a challenge to US border security and political stability. Experts argue that US policies, particularly the Trump administration's

Cryptocurrency use in Cuba has grown significantly, with estimates of 100,000 to 200,000 Cubans using digital currencies like bitcoin, ethereum, and avalanche. This growth is attributed to the launch of mobile internet and tighter U.S. sanctions, particularly the ban on remittances through Western Union. Cubans use cryptocurrencies for remittances, savings protection against inflation, and business transactions, including international payments for goods and services. The Cuban government is creating a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, indicating a recognition of their potential benefits despite the Communist Party's wariness of private wealth accumulation. Some entrepreneurs and individuals have embraced cryptocurrencies for their anonymity and ability to bypass U.S. sanctions, and there is speculation that the Cuban state may also be using them for international payments.

The Caracas Museum of Modern Art, once a symbol of a westernized Venezuela, has suffered under the country's economic collapse and authoritarianism. Despite being home to Latin America's largest public collection of Picasso's works and other masterpieces, the museum has faced years of deterioration. A partial reopening in February reflects Venezuela's modest economic recovery, with some showrooms renovated and selected masterpieces on display. However, the museum's future remains uncertain without significant investment and a shift in the state's cultural policies. The decline of the museum is emblematic of the broader impact of political polarization on Venezuela's national culture.

The U.S. embargo on Cuba, initiated by President John F. Kennedy 60 years ago, continues to significantly impact the daily lives of Cubans. The embargo, combined with a centrally planned communist economy, has led to chronic shortages and deteriorating economic conditions. Cubans face difficulties in accessing online services and international markets due to sanctions, which also hinder technological and economic development. Despite some changes over the decades, the embargo remains the longest sanctions regime in modern history. Critics argue that the sanctions harm the Cuban people more than the government, while others see the embargo as a tool for the Cuban leadership to deflect blame for economic failures. The article also discusses the historical context of the embargo, its enforcement through technology, and the political debate surrounding its effectiveness and humanitarian impact.

The Nation reflects on the 60-year history of the US embargo against Cuba, criticizing it as brutal, vindictive, and ineffective. The article highlights calls from members of Congress for President Biden to lift sanctions that block humanitarian aid and to reverse Trump-era restrictions. It argues for full engagement with Cuba, including lifting the embargo, which it describes as a relic of the Cold War and a failed attempt at regime change. The piece underscores the embargo's detrimental impact on the Cuban people and the international isolation it has caused for the US, with the UN overwhelmingly condemning the blockade. The article also notes the embargo's contradiction with stated US human rights policies, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, which has seen Cuba struggle with syringe shortages.

Cuba is experiencing severe shortages of basic necessities, prompting a young generation of dissidents to call for a protest demanding food, medicine, and liberty. The government, led by President Miguel Díaz-Canel, faces criticism for economic mismanagement and suppressing dissent. The protest, organized by the Facebook group Archipiélago, has been toned down to avoid violence, with alternative forms of demonstration suggested. Despite the Cuban government's accusations of US involvement, the organizers deny receiving US funds and emphasize Cuban autonomy in solving their issues. The internet's arrival has empowered citizens to voice their complaints, marking an unprecedented level of opposition in Cuba. The outcome of the planned protest remains uncertain as the government has declared it illegal and the public's willingness to participate is unclear.

Yunior García, a Cuban playwright, has become a prominent activist leading the opposition group Archipelago, which is organizing pro-democracy marches in Cuba. The Communist party has banned the protests, claiming they are US-backed attempts to overthrow the government. García advocates for individual rights and a diverse country, contrasting with the government's stance. Amidst an economic crisis exacerbated by US sanctions and the pandemic, Cuba experienced its largest anti-government protests in decades. The government has responded with repression, including beating protesters and imprisoning hundreds. Activists face harassment, and the government has planned a 'National Defence Day' to counter the protests. Experts and activists express the need for democratic reforms, but acknowledge the challenges given the US's 'maximum pressure' policy and economic warfare.

Cuba will begin vaccinating children as young as two years old against Covid-19, becoming the first country to immunize such young children. The Cuban health regulator approved pediatric vaccination in early September, and the country has started immunizing youths aged 13 to 17. Cuba is using its domestically developed Soberana 2 and Soberana Plus vaccines, which have shown over 90% efficacy in adults and children, although data has not been peer-reviewed. The pandemic has pushed Cuba's healthcare system to the brink of collapse, with shortages of medicine, medical oxygen, and coronavirus tests. The U.S. sanctions have complicated vaccine efforts, but Cuba aims to vaccinate over 90% of its population by December.

Cuba is set to start vaccinating children as young as 2 against COVID-19, becoming the first country to immunize such a young age group. The country's health regulator has approved the use of domestically developed vaccines Soberana 2 and Soberana Plus, which have shown over 90% effectiveness in trials. However, trial data has not been published in peer-reviewed journals. This move comes as Cuba faces a surge in coronavirus cases with the spread of the Delta variant.

The internet has become a significant factor in Cuban politics, with social media playing a role in recent protests. The Cuban government's control over mass communication is challenged by the increasing online presence of its citizens. US politicians, including Marco Rubio and Joe Biden, are exploring ways to enhance internet access in Cuba. Past US efforts to increase connectivity have been controversial and sometimes clandestine. Over 4 million Cubans now use smartphones to go online, often using VPNs to bypass restrictions. US-funded anti-regime propaganda has reached Cubans online, while Cuban officials accuse the US of a destabilization campaign. The temporary internet shutdown in Cuba is seen as costly to the nation's education system and economy.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has labeled the largest anti-government protests in Cuba in nearly three decades as a US-backed plot to undermine the communist revolution. The protests, driven by dissatisfaction over food shortages, blackouts, and a lack of political freedoms, have been met with a call for 'revolutionaries' to confront the demonstrators. US President Joe Biden has expressed support for the Cuban people's rights, while Cuban dissidents have dismissed the government's claims and fear a wave of repression. International reactions include calls for a peaceful resolution without intervention.

Mass protests erupted across Cuba, with thousands demonstrating against food shortages, high prices, and communist rule. The protests, the largest in three decades, began in San Antonio de los Baños and Palma Soriano, spreading to Havana. Demonstrators called for freedom and an end to communism, while President Miguel Díaz-Canel called for a revolutionary response. Clashes occurred between protesters and police, with reports of violence and arrests. The economic crisis, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and the pandemic's impact on tourism, has led to severe shortages. The Biden administration expressed support for the peaceful protests.

Cuba has been designated a state sponsor of terrorism by the Trump administration, a move condemned by Havana as hypocritical and politically opportunistic. The Cuban government, facing economic hardships exacerbated by U.S. restrictions and the pandemic, is eager for the Biden administration to take office. President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez expressed readiness to move past the Trump administration's policies, which have led to shortages of essentials in Cuba.

Cuba's economy, already suffering from US sanctions and poor management, has been further devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on tourism, leading to severe food shortages. The government's reliance on dollar stores for food distribution has exacerbated economic inequality. Despite these challenges, Cuba's strong public health system has effectively controlled the virus. The Cuban government blames the US for its economic woes, while the US continues to tighten sanctions. The pandemic has pushed Cuba to announce economic reforms to stimulate the private sector, but the details and implementation remain uncertain.

Cuba's economy, already suffering from U.S. sanctions and mismanagement, faces a severe food crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The loss of tourism and remittances has led to shortages of basic goods and reliance on dollar stores, which has increased economic inequality. The government plans economic reforms to stimulate the private sector, but similar past reforms have been rescinded. Despite the economic challenges, Cuba's public health system has successfully controlled the virus, with low mortality rates compared to other regions.

Hurricane Laura intensified to a Category 1 hurricane as it moved through the Gulf of Mexico towards Louisiana and Texas, prompting evacuation orders for about 500,000 residents. Comparisons were drawn to past hurricanes like Rita and Harvey, with officials emphasizing the potential for devastation. Texas Governor Greg Abbott warned of high winds, surging water, and the possibility of tornadoes. The storm had already caused heavy rainfall in Cuba and Jamaica but no casualties were reported. Emergency workers, including the National Guard, were ready to respond in Texas. The storm's approach coincided with the anniversary of Hurricane Harvey, which caused extensive damage in 2017.

In Cuba, evangelical churches have become a significant political force, campaigning against the legalization of gay marriage as the country prepares for a constitutional referendum. The Methodist, Baptist, and Pentecostal churches have united in their efforts, even delivering a petition with 178,000 signatures to the National Assembly. This unprecedented religious activism has influenced the government to reconsider the language regarding marriage in the new constitution. The rise of evangelical influence is not unique to Cuba; it reflects a broader trend across Latin America where evangelical Christians are impacting politics, such as in Colombia's peace deal referendum and Brazil's presidential election. The Cuban evangelical movement has been supported by international funding, including from Latin American churches and the US government. While the campaign against gay marriage is the current focus, there is speculation that this religious political force could extend its influence to other areas, potentially advocating for a free market and anti-statist agenda.

The article explores the unique phenomenon of 'el paquete semanal' in Cuba, a workaround for the limited internet access in the country. This weekly packet is an external drive filled with media content, including shows, news, and apps, delivered by individuals like Alberto Jorge. It serves as an offline alternative to online streaming, providing content from various international sources, and is a popular means of entertainment and information for Cubans. The service costs two US dollars a week and is a response to state media censorship and the high cost of internet access, which is exacerbated by the US embargo. The article also touches on the perspectives of Cubans who use 'el paquete' as their primary source of media, highlighting the socio-economic challenges they face in accessing information.

The article discusses the significant loss of baseball talent in Cuba, as over 300 players have left the country in the last three years, many seeking opportunities in the United States. The departure of these players is deeply felt in Cuba, where baseball is a key part of the national identity. The Cuban National Series playoffs are about to begin, but the best players will not be participating. The article includes perspectives from a fan and former catcher, Mario Ojeda, and a Cuban baseball historian, Ismael Sené, highlighting the mixed feelings about the situation. While there is a sense of loss, there is also a desire for Cuban players to succeed internationally.

The article discusses the deterioration of US-Cuba relations following mysterious health incidents affecting US diplomats in Havana. Between November 2016 and August 2017, US personnel experienced symptoms like nausea and memory loss, leading the Trump administration to reduce its embassy staff and accuse Cuba of attacks, although the cause remains unexplained. This has impacted Cuban citizens economically, as American tourism has declined, and Cubans face difficulties in obtaining US visas. The Cuban government initially responded with restraint but has grown more critical, dismissing the allegations as political manipulation. The article also touches on historical tensions between the US and Cuba, including past confrontations and attempts by the US to undermine the Cuban government, providing context for the current skepticism in Cuba regarding the health incidents.

The article discusses the controversial 2017 presidential elections in Honduras, where incumbent Juan Orlando Hernandez of the National Party was declared the winner against Salvador Nasralla of the Opposition Alliance Against the Dictatorship. The election results were delayed due to a 'computer glitch' and when counting resumed, Hernandez overtook Nasralla's initial lead. Allegations of electoral fraud were supported by a leaked tape published by The Economist and the Organization of American States called for a new election due to numerous irregularities. Protests erupted across Honduras, leading to government-imposed curfews and suspension of constitutional rights. Security forces and alleged death squads have been accused of violence, resulting in over 30 deaths, including a three-month-old baby. Human rights group COFADEH has reported systematic political assassinations, threats, and torture.

Hurricane Irma, after making landfall in Florida's southwest coast and moving through the Florida Keys, approached the Tampa Bay area with wind gusts of about 100 miles per hour. Downgraded to a Category 1 hurricane, it was expected to remain a hurricane through at least Monday morning. Tampa residents faced the storm's impact with over 3.3 million power outages across the state. The storm's counterclockwise winds initially pushed water out of Tampa Bay, with a reversal anticipated to cause additional flooding. Mayor Bob Buckhorn of Tampa metaphorically stated the city's imminent challenges in facing the hurricane.

Hurricane Irma made landfall in Florida on Sunday, bringing strong winds, rain, and causing widespread damage and power outages. The storm, which had previously devastated parts of the Caribbean, was downgraded to a Category 2 as it hit the state. Despite the downgrade, over three million people were left without power, and at least four deaths were reported in Florida. The hurricane's impact was felt from the Keys to the Panhandle, with Miami experiencing significant wind damage and flooding. Evacuations and curfews were put in place, and shelters were quickly filled. The National Hurricane Center warned that the storm would remain powerful as it continued to move north.

Hurricane Irma, after impacting the Bahamas and making landfall in Cuba, is expected to strike Florida with high wind speeds capable of causing significant damage. Florida Governor Rick Scott has warned of a life-threatening storm surge and has urged the 5.6 million residents ordered to evacuate to do so immediately. The storm has already been linked to over 20 fatalities in the Caribbean and poses a threat to islands already devastated by its force.

The article reflects on the death of Fidel Castro and the subsequent collective grieving in Cuba, contrasting the local sentiment with international media coverage. It discusses the Cuban perspective on human rights, highlighting the nation's focus on social welfare, such as health and education, as fundamental rights. The author, a correspondent in Havana, critiques the Western media's selective approach to human rights reporting, arguing that it often lacks context and fails to consider the impact of U.S. policy on Cuba. The piece suggests that the media's portrayal of Castro's legacy is overly simplistic and politically motivated, and calls for a universal approach to human rights that includes economic and social rights.

The article discusses the gradual increase in internet connectivity in Cuba, facilitated by the state-owned telecom company Etecsa. Despite the launch of wifi hotspots and increasing daily connections, internet access remains costly and censored. The US embargo further limits access to popular apps and services. However, Cubans are finding creative solutions to overcome these barriers, such as using alternative apps like IMO and Connectify, and visiting mirror websites for blocked sites like Revolico. Offline apps like Alamesa and Zapya are also popular for circumventing connectivity issues. The article highlights the ingenuity of Cubans in adapting to limited internet access and the impact of the internet on reducing feelings of isolation among Cubans, especially those with family abroad. Huawei's involvement in laying fiber-optic cables for broadband services in Old Havana is mentioned, though affordability remains a concern.