Cuba’s Economic Overhaul: President Miguel Díaz-Canel announced sweeping 2026 reforms, including more autonomy for state firms and municipalities, expanded private activity, foreign-trade liberalization, and new rules for targeted aid instead of broad subsidies—aimed at keeping the economy moving under intensified U.S. pressure. U.S. Sanctions Hit Energy: Washington imposed a full financial blockade on state oil company CUPET, prompting Cuba’s foreign minister to accuse the U.S. of tightening the “energy blockade” through “lies,” as Havana frames the move as part of a broader campaign. Tourism Shake-Up: Díaz-Canel said Cuba is reopening tourism to “new players” and “new modalities,” a bid to revive a sector in deep crisis as major firms pull back to avoid sanctions. Currency Spike for Travelers: In the informal market, the dollar climbed to 655 CUP, the euro to 750 CUP, and MLC to 440 CUP—new highs that reflect a worsening foreign-currency shortage. Reef Rescue Under Strain: Despite scarcity and the blockade, divers and scientists are getting inventive to protect Cuba’s reefs, including cleanup efforts at Ciénaga de Zapata. Visa Friction for Media: U.S. authorities denied entry to Cuban state TV journalist Héctor Villar while he was traveling to cover the 2026 World Cup. Cuban Community Support Abroad: In Chile, Cubans raised funds to repatriate the ashes of Yudisleidy Rodríguez Castellón after urgent medical and paperwork hurdles.