U.S.-Cuba Military Tensions: The commander of U.S. Southern Command met Cuban senior military officials near Guantánamo Bay for a rare operational security exchange as the U.S. ramps up its Caribbean posture. Human Rights & Deportations: Human Rights Watch says thousands of Cubans deported to Mexico face homelessness, illness, and legal limbo, alleging due-process failures after U.S. removals. Diplomacy & International Links: Cuba’s Vice President Salvador Valdés Mesa met Kazakhstan and Belarus leaders at the Eurasian Economic Union summit, and Cuba and the EAEU signed a 2026-2030 cooperation roadmap covering biotech, tourism, agriculture, and the Mariel zone. Travel/Visitor Restrictions: Cuban authorities blocked Dr. Alina Bárbara López Hernández from attending a LASA congress in Paris, citing a travel ban tied to her legal case. Tourism Reality Check (Varadero): A Cuban creator’s viral review of Selectum Family Resort Varadero sparked backlash over room issues, food complaints, and check-in delays. Food & Hospitality (Florida): Michelin honored a Cuban restaurant in West Palm Beach with a star, boosting Cuba-linked dining visibility for travelers. Regional Solidarity: Canada’s unions passed an emergency resolution backing Cuba and calling for an end to the U.S. blockade.