As Hurricane Melissa wreaks havoc across eastern Cuba, the communist regime remains steadfast in its propaganda efforts, focusing its narrative on the U.S. embargo and ideological battles instead of addressing the urgent humanitarian crisis faced by thousands of families.
In the wake of the cyclone's destructive impact—leaving homes destroyed, communities cut off, and a severe shortage of food—the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs took to social media this Wednesday, issuing a statement that seemed out of touch with the ongoing crisis:
"The continuation of the blockade against Cuba is indefensible from a moral standpoint, legally unsustainable, and economically counterproductive. It makes no economic sense."
Propaganda Amidst Catastrophe
The official propaganda apparatus did not halt its political rhetoric, even in the face of one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the island. While thousands in the eastern regions cry out for water, food, and electricity, the state-run portal Cubadebate posted on Facebook: "October 28, 2025, will be remembered in Cuba not only as another traditional day of homage to Camilo Cienfuegos but also for the prolonged national alert in anticipation of a catastrophic cyclone entering the east of the country."
The post intertwined historical references with political propaganda, claiming that while the nation faced the hurricane, a new resolution against the U.S. embargo was being debated at the United Nations. A podcast even dismissed citizens' reports of poor preparation and inadequate emergency management as "fake news."
Real Destruction vs. Empty Rhetoric
The official discourse aims to divert attention from the tangible humanitarian crisis. In the neighborhoods of Santiago de Cuba and Holguin, families report collapsed homes, a lack of food, no state presence, and total blackouts for more than 48 hours.
While the government continues to portray itself as a victim of the embargo, the reality in eastern Cuba reveals a devastated country with no answers, where the priority of state media appears to be ideological narrative rather than human aid.
The Blockade Narrative Unyielding Amid Ruins
The regime's communication strategy remains unchanged: blaming the U.S. embargo for the effects of its inefficiency and neglect. Instead of reporting on the number of victims, destroyed homes, or recovery plans, state media focused their coverage on political "resistance" and the U.N. vote against the embargo.
The stark contrast between human tragedy and official propaganda highlights, once again, the disconnect between the government and the people. While families struggle to survive, the Havana regime continues its ideological discourse rather than offering assistance.
Understanding the Impact of Hurricane Melissa on Cuba
What is the current situation in eastern Cuba following Hurricane Melissa?
The eastern region of Cuba has been severely affected by Hurricane Melissa, resulting in destroyed homes, disconnection of communities, and a critical shortage of food and essential supplies.
How has the Cuban government responded to the crisis?
The Cuban government has continued its propaganda efforts, focusing on the U.S. embargo and political narratives, rather than addressing the immediate humanitarian needs of its people.
What challenges are families facing in the aftermath of the hurricane?
Families in eastern Cuba are facing significant challenges, including lack of access to food, water, electricity, and adequate state support, exacerbating their struggle to recover from the disaster.