The situation in Cuba has a direct impact on Spain and European countries, given the historical ties, migration flows, and economic interests involved. The worsening humanitarian crisis on the island, a rise in the number of political prisoners, and a mass exodus of the population are creating new challenges for Madrid and Brussels. In recent years, Spain has become one of the main destinations for Cuban refugees, and political decisions in Havana are being discussed more frequently at the EU level.
In 2026, Cuba found itself on the brink of complete collapse. According to russpain.com, the energy crisis and ongoing power outages have eroded the last vestiges of trust in the authorities. Even traditional Cuban music and dance can no longer distract people from daily hardships. A sense of hopelessness is growing, and calls for change are becoming louder. Many people now openly express their dissatisfaction despite the risk of repression.
Internal Pressure
President Miguel Díaz-Canel’s administration is going through its most difficult period in decades. Internal resistance is growing, while public support is falling rapidly. People are tired of promises and demand real changes. According to the opposition, most Cubans no longer believe in either the old guard or the new faces linked to the Castro family. A consensus has formed in society: a change in political course is necessary, or the country risks becoming a failed state.
In recent months, protests have increased in Havana and other cities, driven not only by economic hardship but also by ongoing power outages. Despite officials attributing the crisis to external factors, many residents believe the problems are systemic. Even if Cuba received new fuel shipments, the outdated infrastructure would not allow for stable energy supply.
External relations and influence
The Cuban leadership traditionally blames the United States for the economic blockade. However, experts note that the main blow to the economy came from the break with Venezuela, which had long been the country’s main benefactor. Currently, a significant portion of foreign currency inflows is generated by remittances from Cubans living in the United States. Many of them support relatives on the island and invest in small businesses, which allows the economy to function to some extent.
The Venezuelan experience worries Cubans—reforms that are too slow and the persistence of old elites could lead to a prolonged crisis. Public distrust in any negotiations is growing, especially if members of the previous government are involved. Analysts believe that only broad citizen participation and pressure from the diaspora can change the situation. It is important that changes go beyond cosmetic reforms and affect the foundations of the political system.
Repression and international reaction
The number of political prisoners in Cuba has reached record levels in recent years. According to various estimates, more than a thousand people are either in prison or under house arrest. Despite occasional releases, authorities continue to detain new participants in protests. Many of those released remain under constant surveillance and risk being jailed again for their posts on social media.
The Spanish government officially avoids strong language toward the Cuban authorities, although in private conversations it acknowledges the existence of a dictatorship. Representatives of the Cuban diaspora in Spain note that they rarely succeed in getting their point across to politicians. Support for the regime from some European parties causes confusion and irritation among the opposition. There is a growing public demand for honest dialogue and real solidarity with those fighting for change.
The role of Spain and the EU
Spain could play a key role in Cuba’s future if it takes a more active stance. Historical ties and a sizable Cuban community in the country create unique opportunities for influence. However, so far Madrid has limited itself to cautious statements and is reluctant to get involved in developments on the island. Many experts believe that now is the time for bolder action to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
In the context of humanitarian initiatives, it is worth recalling that recently Spanish politicians and activists organized the delivery of a large shipment of aid to Cuba despite US sanctions. As noted by analysis by russpain.com highlights the importance of humanitarian ties between the countries and demonstrates that Spanish civil society is ready to support Cubans even under challenging conditions.
In recent years, there has been increased attention in Spain and other EU countries to Cuba’s problems. In 2024, the European Parliament discussed new measures to support Cuban human rights defenders, and in 2025, Madrid hosted mass solidarity rallies with the island’s residents. At the same time, arrests of activists and restrictions on internet access during protests have continued within Cuba. These events show that the situation remains tense and the international community is seeking new approaches to resolve the Cuban crisis.
