Overview
- Speaking after the Angelus, the Pope called for a “sincere and effective” dialogue to prevent violence and further suffering for Cubans, echoing an urgent plea from the island’s bishops.
- President Donald Trump signed an executive order enabling tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba and warned there will be “no more oil or money” flowing to the island.
- Cuban bishops cited a worsening social and economic crisis, warning of a real risk of social chaos and offering the Church’s availability to help reduce tensions.
- Reporting highlights chronic blackouts, deepening poverty and mass emigration in Cuba, heightening fears that tighter energy restrictions could intensify a humanitarian crunch.
- Embassies in Havana reviewed contingency plans as Mexico signaled continued solidarity on fuel, while the Pope urged gestures of détente ahead of the Milan‑Cortina Winter Olympics.