KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) says the current circumstances facing the Cuban people demand a principled and compassionate response from the region and the wider international community.

Cuba is facing one of its most serious social and economic crises since the 1959 revolution. Energy supplies remain limited and the national power grid is severely deteriorated. Inflation has climbed above 15 per cent, while the peso continues to lose value.

At the same time, outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya and Oropouche virus have intensified, exacerbated by the collapse of municipal waste collection in Havana in 2025. Key sources of foreign exchange, including tourism, international medical cooperation and pharmaceutical production, have also significantly declined.

Noting that it stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Cuba as they confront an increasingly difficult humanitarian situation, the PNP highlighted Cuba’s support of Jamaica’s national development, particularly in health and education, for over five decades.

“Thousands of Jamaicans have benefited from Cuban medical missions, scholarships and technical cooperation, and this legacy of support must not be forgotten,” the party said.

It further noted that as external pressures intensify and continue to adversely affect the daily lives and well-being of the Cuban people, it is both appropriate and necessary for the region to respond with understanding and solidarity.

“In recognising the immense contributions Cuba has made to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, it is equally important to acknowledge that Cuba is deserving of support as it faces mounting humanitarian and economic challenges. Our shared history and regional bonds require that we act with empathy, fairness and respect for sovereignty,” the PNP added.

The party further emphasised the importance of regional and international engagement grounded in international law, non-interference and peaceful cooperation.

“The Caribbean has always upheld these fundamental principles, and at this time, Caricom [Caribbean Community] and countries across the region and beyond must stand firmly in defence of them so that dialogue, stability and peaceful coexistence can prevail,” it said.