Story perspectives

Cuba's Economy Crippled by COVID and Venezuelan Oil Loss

1/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. intelligence assessments, including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), describe a dire Cuban economy after COVID-19 tourism decline.
The CIA notes severe strain in agriculture and tourism, with blackouts up to 20 hours outside Havana.
U.S. President Donald Trump claims Venezuelan action could destabilize Cuba.
Losing Venezuelan oil could worsen Cuba's economy, already strained by state planning and sanctions, while population decline complicates reform.

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Story summary

U.S. intelligence assessments, including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), describe a dire Cuban economy after COVID-19 tourism decline.
The CIA notes severe strain in agriculture and tourism, with blackouts up to 20 hours outside Havana.
U.S. President Donald Trump claims Venezuelan action could destabilize Cuba.
Losing Venezuelan oil could worsen Cuba's economy, already strained by state planning and sanctions, while population decline complicates reform.