EXPLAINERNews|GovernmentWhy is the US targeting Cuba’s global medical missions?Amid Cuba’s deepening fuel crisis, countries are bowing to US pressure and winding down their Cuban medical programmes.
Guatemala announced it will commence a phased withdrawal of its longstanding program involving Cuban doctors. This program was originally established to address gaps in Guatemala's healthcare system.
Guatemala announced it will commence a phased withdrawal of its longstanding program involving Cuban doctors. This program was originally established to address gaps in Guatemala's healthcare system.
Guatemala's Decision to Phase Out Cuban Medical Program
The Ministry of Health in Guatemala released a statement on February 13, 2026, indicating the gradual termination of the Cuban Medical Brigade. The decision stems from an analysis of the mission's completion of its intended cycles. The Cuban medical mission initially provided support during the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch in 1998, which severely impacted Central America.
The Ministry plans to replace the Cuban medical staff with national personnel and strengthen incentives for positions in remote areas. This strategic plan includes redistributing human resources and offering specialized technical support.
Currently, the Cuban mission in Guatemala comprises 412 medical workers, including 333 doctors.
Guatemala announced it will commence a phased withdrawal of its longstanding program involving Cuban doctors.
Impact of External Factors on Guatemala's Decision
This decision aligns with increased pressure from the United States, which aims to limit Cuban doctors' international engagements. The objective is to reduce Cuba's revenue, as a significant portion of the income from these missions is allocated to the Cuban government. Cuba is facing shortages of power, food, and medical supplies due to an oil blockade imposed by the United States since January.
Cuba has deployed medical missions globally, including to Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. More than 24,000 Cuban doctors are currently working in 56 countries. These missions began after the 1959 Cuban revolution and have been a significant aspect of Cuba's international relations.
The United States has labeled Cuba's international medical missions as forced labor and human trafficking, aiming to restrict Cuba's primary source of foreign income. Visa restrictions have been imposed by the US to discourage agreements with Cuba regarding medical cooperation.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions targeting individuals involved in Cuba's labor export program, particularly its overseas medical missions. This expanded policy applies to current or former Cuban government officials and foreign officials linked to the program.
Some countries have resisted US pressure to end cooperation with Cuban medical missions. For instance, Guyana announced it would begin paying Cuban doctors directly rather than through the Cuban government, showcasing a strategy to maintain the program despite external pressures.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.