Aid the Cuban people, not their oppressors, Canada should tread carefully

The Globe editorial says growing shortages of fuel, food and medicine in Cuba have prompted calls for Canadian aid, but it argues Ottawa should avoid government‑to‑government assistance and channel help through trusted international organizations instead.

Canadians are debating how to respond to worsening shortages and blackouts in Cuba. The editorial reports that fuel, food and medicine shortages are affecting hospitals and daily life. It notes that some groups have urged Ottawa to send oil or other aid directly to Cuban state entities. The piece cautions that aid delivered to government bodies can strengthen the regime rather than the Cuban people. Key points: - The editorial reports widespread shortages of fuel, food and medicine in Cuba and says blackouts have disrupted hospitals and services. - Some Canadian groups have called for shipments of oil or direct aid; the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives suggested donating heavy crude to CUPET, Cuba’s state oil company, which the editorial criticizes as assistance to the government. - The editorial says Cuba’s government punishes dissent and controls most media, and notes that many Cubans have left the country seeking better lives. - Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s Minister for U.S. Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs, indicated an announcement on humanitarian aid in partnership with Mexico is expected soon, and the editorial favors routing aid through international bodies such as UNICEF as in 2024. Summary: The editorial urges Canada to help the Cuban people without propping up the Cuban government, recommending aid be delivered through trusted international organizations rather than government‑to‑government channels. An announcement on humanitarian assistance in partnership with Mexico was signalled by Minister Dominic LeBlanc and is expected soon.