The United States has renewed a $100 million humanitarian aid offer to Cuba as the island faces an economic crisis, fuel shortages and persistent power blackouts. Several outlets report that Washington says Cuba has refused the earlier proposal or blocked what it describes as critical life-saving assistance, while Cuban officials deny rejecting the offer and accuse the US of using aid for political leverage. Reporting also highlights that US sanctions are tightening alongside the renewed offer.
US officials and diplomats hold talks with Cuban counterparts regarding implementation. One reported meeting involves US Ambassador Mike Hammer and Cuban foreign ministry officials, with continued coordination described as ongoing. The US says the assistance would be delivered through Christian charities—rather than directly to the Cuban government—an approach Cuba critics and supporters describe as bypassing state control. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is cited as stating the offer is tied to conditions that Cuba take steps toward political openness, including cooperation demands that Havana disputes.
Cuban leaders say they are willing to review the proposal. Some reports add that Cuba has accepted the aid, while others emphasize the disagreement over whether Cuba has blocked it. Overall, the renewed offer unfolds amid deteriorating conditions and heightened US-Cuba tensions.
