Cubans Rely on U.S. Relatives Amid Food Shortages

Months after President Trump’s oil blockade took effect, many Cubans are increasingly dependent on their relatives in the U.S. for basic needs. The oil blockade has severely impacted Cuba, causing widespread food shortages, nearly continuous blackouts, and stifling heat. For many Cubans, relief comes in the form of packages sent by relatives from Miami, including canned meats, rice, beans, mosquito nets, flashlights, fans, and light nightgowns to help cope with oppressive nights.

Some people use off-the-books couriers, known as ‘mules,’ to fly to Cuba with goods or envelopes of American cash. Jorge Smith, 64, immigrated from Cuba to Miami four years ago and recently purchased a stronger solar-powered generator for his daughter and grandson in Havana. He previously sent a 60-watt generator, but it can no longer meet their needs as electricity remains scarce, limited to just two hours per day.

Mr. Smith, who drives for Uber, faces his own financial struggles while living in increasingly costly Miami. Although he opposes the Cuban government, he disagrees with the oil blockade, stating that it primarily affects the people rather than the leadership. He believes the blockade cuts off vital lifelines for ordinary Cubans.

Cubans have long depended on relatives in the U.S. for support. Today, those relatives can use informal couriers, numerous Miami-based shipping companies, and online shopping sites to arrange deliveries to Cuba.