Uruguay faces potential decline in eye care amid US pressure to remove Cuban medical brigade

Labor leaders in Uruguay are warning of a significant decline in ophthalmological services following reports that the United States is requesting the removal of the Cuban medical brigade. The brigade has been operating in the country for over 18 years, notably providing services through the ‘Operation Miracle’ program at the José Martí Eye Hospital.

Martín Pereira, president of the Confederation of State Employees Organizations (COFE) and the Federation of Public Health Employees (FFSP), stated that the withdrawal could cause a 20-year regression in eye care access, widening the gap between those who can afford surgery and those who cannot. He characterized the diplomatic efforts by Washington as interference in Uruguay’s domestic healthcare policy.

Uruguayan Vice-Chancellor Valeria Csukasi acknowledged that the United States has been raising the issue for several months. She noted that while the government listens to these requests, Uruguay will act according to its own sovereignty and interests, recognizing that the Cuban medical presence has long benefited the nation.