Cuba's Deepening Crisis

Cuba is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis, with widespread power outages, food shortages, and a lack of essential medical supplies. CBC News reports from Havana, detailing the struggles of ordinary Cubans as the U.S. embargo continues to bite. Residents report soaring prices – a dozen eggs now costing a week’s salary – and growing frustration, occasionally leading to sporadic protests.

Deostado Valdez, a 77-year-old farmer, expressed concern about Cuba’s future without oil assistance. Guimel Tamayo, a charcoal maker, noted increased demand due to blackouts. While many fear speaking out against the government, some, like Manuel Perez, are calling for change and expressing hope for a better future. Author Julio Aleaga Pessant, whose work is banned in Cuba, advocates for a South African-style truth and reconciliation process.

Advocates in Vancouver are protesting the U.S. embargo, highlighting the dire conditions, including reports of children dying in hospitals due to lack of medication. Two women from Kelowna have travelled to Havana with 14 suitcases of medical supplies.

Canadian Firm's US Detention Contract

Meanwhile, Montreal-based security firm Garterworld has secured a potentially $700 million U.S. contract to operate a 1,500-bed detention center in Surprise, Arizona. The contract, which includes providing food, medical care, and processing detainees, has raised concerns in Quebec, given the company received a $300 million investment from the provincial government in 2022.

Corporate watchdogs are calling for greater scrutiny of the deal. Garterworld has faced criticism for its involvement at the Alligator Alcatraz detention facility in Florida, which has been subject to allegations of human rights abuses. While Garterworld denies involvement in any wrongdoing, Amnesty International has reported “inhuman and unsanitary conditions” at the facility.

Quebec’s economy minister maintains the provincial funding is not tied to Garterworld’s U.S. operations, but opposition parties are demanding further investigation.

Trump's Iran Strategy

The report also briefly touches on comments made regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump's actions towards Iran, specifically a claimed strike on Karg Island and continued threats to block traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.