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Cuba's New War Survival Guide Sparks Skepticism Amid Economic Crisis

A handbook on war preparedness feels surreal when refrigerators sit empty and lights stay off. Why is Cuba's government focusing on conflict instead of today's struggles?

The image shows a paper with a map of the city of Havana, Cuba, with text written on it. The map is...
The image shows a paper with a map of the city of Havana, Cuba, with text written on it. The map is detailed, showing the streets, buildings, and other features of the area.

Cuba's New War Survival Guide Sparks Skepticism Amid Economic Crisis

Cuba has released an official guide to help citizens prepare for a possible military attack. The handbook arrives as the country faces deepening economic struggles, including severe blackouts and food shortages. Many residents have reacted with frustration, questioning its practicality amid ongoing hardship. The civil defence agency published the Guide for Families on Protection Against Military Attack on government platforms. It instructs people to pack emergency supplies, such as food and medicine, in case of conflict. The manual also advises seeking shelter immediately during air raids and prioritising the safety of children and elderly relatives.

The release comes as Cuba endures prolonged power cuts, with some areas of Havana experiencing up to 22 hours a day without electricity. Food shortages have worsened, with perishables spoiling due to a lack of refrigeration. Authorities attribute the crisis to U.S. trade sanctions and an oil embargo tightened under the Trump administration. Despite the guide’s instructions, many Cubans have expressed scepticism. Social media posts highlight the difficulty of stockpiling supplies when basic goods are already scarce. Some question the timing of the manual, given the country’s more immediate struggles with energy and food access.

The handbook remains available online as part of Cuba’s civil defence strategy. Officials continue to blame external sanctions for the country’s economic and energy troubles. Meanwhile, residents face daily challenges, from blackouts to limited access to essential goods.

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