Amid the ongoing energy crisis in Cuba caused by US sanctions, Spanish politicians and public figures have decided to support the island’s residents. This initiative marks a significant step for Spain, given the historical and cultural ties between the two countries. Interest in the humanitarian mission has grown as Madrid’s role in international affairs and the need to protect Spaniards’ interests abroad are debated.
Humanitarian mission
A shipment of 20 tons of medicines, food, and hygiene products has been sent to Cuba as part of the “Nuestra América, Convoy a Cuba” project. The delegation includes former Vice President of the government Pablo Iglesias, Comunes representative Gerardo Pisarello, and Podemos deputy Javier Sánchez Serna. They were joined by activists and politicians from several countries, including Mexico, Argentina, France, and the United Kingdom. According to El Pais, the aid is being delivered by sea and air from various nations, highlighting the international scale of support.
Organizers announced that all participants will gather on the Malecón in Havana on March 21 for a symbolic ceremony to hand over the aid. Javier Sánchez Serna emphasized that Spain cannot stand aside when it comes to Cuba’s future and urged the government to take a more active role regarding sanctions. His statement called for the protection of sovereignty and for strengthening the ties between the two countries.
International support
Among the first to arrive in Cuba was former Colombian Labor Minister Clara López, who emphasized the importance of solidarity and the need to find new solutions to overcome the blockade. She brought a ton of food and medicine, noting that although this is not enough, symbolic support is vital for the morale of Cubans. López also recalled the need to return to the principles of multilateralism and adherence to the UN Charter to avoid unilateral sanctions that impact ordinary citizens.
The initiative “Nuestra América, Convoy a Cuba” was launched in Barcelona with the participation of Jeremy Corbyn, Clara López, and Pablo Iglesias. Gerardo Pisarello reminded the audience of the close ties between Barcelona and Cuba, stressing that the current energy restrictions and threats from the US have made the island’s situation critical. According to russpain.com, such missions are becoming increasingly relevant amid the growing number of humanitarian crises worldwide.
Reaction and consequences
In Spain, the mission sparked widespread discussion. Many see the delegation’s actions not only as a gesture of solidarity but also as a reminder of the need for an independent foreign policy. Sánchez Serna, in his statements, highlighted that US pressure could negatively affect European interests as well. He also called on the Spanish government to publicly condemn the sanctions imposed by the Trump administration against Cuba.
Meanwhile, in Spain, other important issues related to safety and health continue to be discussed. Recently, dozens of cases of infant poisoning were reported after consuming baby formula, leading to hospitalizations and a large-scale investigation. More details on the development of this situation can be found in the article on the causes of hospitalizations among infants in various regions.
Context and related events
Humanitarian missions from Spain to Cuba are not uncommon, especially during times of crisis. In recent years, Spanish organizations and private initiatives have repeatedly sent medicines and food supplies to the island, facing logistical challenges due to sanctions. In 2024, a similar campaign drew public attention when several tons of medical supplies were delivered to Havana with the support of international foundations. Such events highlight the importance of international solidarity and Spain’s role in providing assistance to countries under external pressure.
