Cuba President Díaz‑Canel Announces Defense and Economic Plans Amid U.S. Blockade

President Miguel Díaz‑Canel said the United States continues to exert “ferocious imperial blockade,” but affirmed that the Revolution endures and the country remains functional. He announced a series of measures aimed at sustaining development despite the pressure.

The first priority is strengthening defence through a “War of All the People,” updating territorial defence plans and involving citizens in civil protection. The second priority is the 2026 Economic and Social Program, shaped by a nationwide popular consultation and drawing on experiences from countries such as China and Vietnam.

New policies will give municipalities and state enterprises greater autonomy, including direct participation in the foreign‑exchange market, the ability to open real‑currency accounts, and incentives for export and foreign direct investment. Additional measures seek to remove barriers for small and medium enterprises, streamline approval of investment projects, and promote renewable energy and electric mobility.