Uruguay faces potential loss of U.S. aid over Cuban medical missions

Uruguay faces the potential loss of international assistance from the United States following its inclusion in a U.S. Department of State annual report regarding human trafficking. The report concerns the medical missions involving Cuban doctors operating within the country.

Reports indicate that the U.S. Department of State has communicated to Uruguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defense regarding the hiring of Cuban medical professionals, specifically at the Hospital de Ojos. There are concerns that this arrangement could lead to Uruguay being categorized as a country that utilizes forced labor. If these conditions persist in future reports, the U.S. may suspend military aid and other forms of international assistance.

Uruguayan Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin stated that while the government has not received official communication on the specific matter, it is a topic currently under dialogue. Lubetkin defended the impact of the Cuban ophthalmologists, describing their work as “extraordinary” and noting that they have provided essential vision services to many people. He emphasized the desire to preserve these positive professional experiences within a framework of dialogue and agreement with all relevant parties.