Cuba reports $98 million in education losses due to US blockade

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez reported that the United States blockade and energy siege caused over $98 million in losses to Cuba's education sector between March 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026. The Ministry of Education reported damages totaling $73,799,500, while the Ministry of Higher Education reported losses of $24,207,000.

Rodríguez stated that fuel shortages resulting from the petroleum blockade have restricted the movement of students and teachers, affecting approximately 30 percent of the total enrollment. Additionally, electrical instability has disrupted school routines, impacting lighting, nutrition, and student rest, which in turn affects academic performance. The minister characterized these conditions as evidence of a ‘collective punishment’ against the Cuban people.