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Guatemala Ends Cuban Medical Brigade Amid US Sanctions

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Guatemala's health ministry announced a gradual termination of its Cuban medical brigade, citing the United States government's sanctions that restrict Cuba's foreign income from these missions, labeled by Washington as 'forced labor'.
The United States government seeks to curb Cuba's foreign earnings from these missions.
Many Caribbean nations resist United States pressure, saying Cuban doctors are essential to their health systems.
Over 24,000 Cuban doctors currently serve in 56 countries worldwide.

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Story summary

Guatemala's health ministry announced a gradual termination of its Cuban medical brigade, citing the United States government's sanctions that restrict Cuba's foreign income from these missions, labeled by Washington as 'forced labor'.
The United States government seeks to curb Cuba's foreign earnings from these missions.
Many Caribbean nations resist United States pressure, saying Cuban doctors are essential to their health systems.
Over 24,000 Cuban doctors currently serve in 56 countries worldwide.