U.S. Ambassador to Cuba Mike Hammer has stated that “there is already a collapse” on the island, describing the energy and social crisis impacting Cubans. He shared this assessment during an interview with communicator Enrique Santos, who has over 1.3 million followers on social media.
A Nation Without Power
“There is already a collapse. There is barely any electricity, especially in the provinces. Now Havana is experiencing what the rest of the country used to live through,” Hammer declared. He recounted stories of hardship, including residents in cities like Matanzas, Camagüey, Guantánamo, and Santiago experiencing up to twenty hours a day without electricity.
Hammer explained that people are adapting by turning on fans to catch brief periods of power to cook and wash. He likewise noted that the situation worsened when contracts with Turkish energy providers were terminated due to non-payment. This, he said, was a foreseeable outcome.
According to Hammer, the current crisis represents a structural collapse, stemming from internal issues rather than external factors. His statements align with Washington’s assessment of the situation in Cuba.
A Diplomat Listening to the People
Hammer’s observations are based on direct engagement with Cuban citizens. In recent days, he visited Camagüey, Las Tunas, and Holguín, combining symbolic gestures with political commentary. In Puerto Padre (Las Tunas), Hammer attempted to visit activist Vladimiro Martín, who had been detained by state security prior to the diplomat’s arrival.
During that visit, Hammer spoke with a child who informed him of his parents’ arrest and then asked, “What do you aim for to be when you grow up? A doctor, engineer, or president?” This moment, captured by the embassy, has become emblematic of Hammer’s approach—one based on human connection and respect for daily life in Cuba.
In Holguín, Hammer met with Monsignor Emilio Aranguren and presented him with a replica of the Liberty Bell of Philadelphia, commemorating the 250th anniversary of U.S. Independence. This gesture was interpreted as a reaffirmation of Washington’s commitment to religious freedom and democratic values.
What Might Approach Next
The situation in Cuba could continue to deteriorate if the energy crisis is not addressed. Further unrest and emigration are possible outcomes. It is also likely that the U.S. Will continue to monitor the situation closely and potentially offer humanitarian assistance, though the extent of that assistance remains uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mike Hammer’s role in Cuba?
Mike Hammer is the head of the U.S. Mission in Havana.
What did Enrique Santos do?
Enrique Santos is a communicator with over 1.3 million followers on social media who interviewed Mike Hammer.
What happened with the Turkish energy providers?
Contracts with Turkish energy providers were terminated because they were not being paid, contributing to the energy crisis.
As Cuba faces this “collapse,” what role will international diplomacy play in addressing the needs of its citizens?
