Cuba’s Economic Overhaul: President Miguel Díaz-Canel unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at liberalizing the economy, including more autonomy for state firms, changes to subsidies, faster local approvals for small businesses, and a push to bring in “new players” to revive tourism and foreign trade. Tourism Pressure Point: The reforms land as Cuba’s tourism slump continues and the island faces mounting energy and economic strain, with officials framing the package as necessary to keep services running. US Sanctions on Energy: The U.S. moved to sanction Cuba’s state oil and gas company CUPET, escalating pressure tied to fuel imports and energy leverage. Currency Shock: Cuba’s informal market hit fresh highs, with the dollar and euro climbing again, reflecting a worsening foreign-currency shortage. Health & Travel Reality Check: A Cuban mother reported an ambulance denial due to “no fuel,” highlighting how breakdowns in emergency transport can force families to scramble for private options. Reef Cleanup Under Scarcity: Divers in Ciénaga de Zapata collected trash using an electric trailer, showing how conservation efforts persist despite limited resources and sanctions. Solidarity Abroad: Cubans in Chile raised funds to repatriate the ashes of a woman who died in Santiago, underscoring how travel and paperwork hurdles ripple beyond the island.