Articles

May

06

2026

Fuel under siege: the human cost of Washington’s energy pressure on Cuba.

By Carlos Ernesto Rodríguez Etcheverry
Cuban Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines

On January 29, 2026, the U.S. government under President Donald Trump formalized a new phase in its policy toward Cuba, invoking emergency authorities to classify the island as an “extraordinary threat” to American national security. This designation opened the door to a set of measures that, while not explicitly banning U.S. fuel sales, have effectively constrained Cuba’s access to energy through indirect but powerful means.

Rather than targeting bilateral trade alone, the policy exerts pressure on third countries, warning of economic consequences—including tariffs and restricted market access—if they continue supplying oil to Cuba. This approach has reshaped the landscape of energy trade around the island, discouraging suppliers and tightening the flow of essential resources.

Apr

30

2026

Energy as a weapon: the human cost of the U.S. blockade on Cuba

By Carlos Ernesto Rodríguez Etcheverry

Cuban Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Published: 30 Apr 2026 | 9:25 AM | AST | https://www.stvincenttimes.com/energy-as-a-weapon-the-human-cost-of-the-...

On January 29, 2026, the administration of president Donald Trump issued an executive order declaring Cuba an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the national security of the United States. Invoking emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act, Washington launched what is now widely described as an “energy blockade” against the island.

Apr

23

2026

Cuban Ambassador visits the headquarters of the National Workers Movement

Kingstown, April 23, 2026 - The Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Carlos Ernesto Rodríguez Etcheverry, paid a visit to the headquarters of the National Workers Movement, where he had a cordial and fruitful meeting with its Secretary General, Noel Jackson.

During the exchange, both sides highlighted the historic ties of solidarity and cooperation that have united Cuba and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as the fundamental role played by trade union movements in defending workers' rights and promoting social justice.

The Cuban diplomat shared an update on the current situation in Cuba, marked by the economic and energy challenges that the country faces, due to the sanctions and pressure from the US Government, while appreciating the expressions of support and solidarity expressed by the Vincentian workers.

Apr

20

2026

Baseball game dedicated to Cuban children, teenagers and youth who live in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Kingstown, [April 19, 2026] — In an atmosphere of joy, unity, and a deep sense of belonging, a baseball game was held featuring Cuban residents, collaborators, and members of the Cuban diplomatic mission in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, specially dedicated to the children, teenagers and youth of the Cuban community in this country.

Nearly a hundred compatriots gathered to enjoy this sporting event, which went beyond competition and became a true space for fellowship. On the field, beyond the result, friendship and camaraderie prevailed—values that define the Cuban nation and are strengthened with each gathering of this kind.

Apr

10

2026

Minister of State of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines receives Ambassador of Cuba.

Kingstown, Friday, April 10, 2026 - The Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Carlos Ernesto Rodríguez Etcheverry, was received by the Honourable Chieftain Neptune, Senator and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, in a meeting that allowed to deepen on issues of common interest and the strengthening of bilateral ties.

During the exchange, both parties addressed the current state of relations between Cuba and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, highlighting the historical character of friendship, solidarity and cooperation that has distinguished the ties between the two countries. In this context, possible areas for expanding collaboration were examined, particularly in social impact and development sectors.

The Cuban Ambassador reiterated his country’s readiness to continue to accompany Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in initiatives that contribute to the well-being of its population, while expressing appreciation for the traditional expressions of support and respect towards Cuba.

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