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Check FAQAbout Ed
Ed Augustin is a British journalist and documentary filmmaker based in Havana. He writes for the Guardian, the New York Times, and Al Jazeera. He does broadcast work for TRT World, France 24 and Al Jazeera. During his time in Cuba, Ed has made films about Guantánamo Bay, the impact of the US embargo on the island’s healthcare system, and hurricane response. Ed brings ten years of media experience and holds a 1st Class Degree in Politics and Philosophy from the University of Manchester.
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
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Portfolio
Cuba Struggles Amid Hurricanes, Sanctions, and Blackouts
Cuba is grappling with a severe energy crisis exacerbated by US sanctions, a recent hurricane, and nationwide blackouts. The Communist Party of Cuba faces a political legitimacy crisis as it struggles to manage the situation. US sanctions, particularly those targeting fuel deliveries, are identified as a major factor in the crisis, with the Biden administration maintaining stringent measures. The island's outdated power infrastructure and economic challenges are compounded by reduced tourism and limited external assistance. Calls for easing sanctions and providing aid are growing, but the outlook remains bleak for Cuba's energy situation.
A national blackout, now a hurricane. How much can Cuba endure?
Cuba is facing a severe crisis marked by a national blackout and the impact of Hurricane Oscar, leading to social unrest and potential disturbances. The Cuban government, led by President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, is struggling to restore electricity and manage the crisis, blaming the U.S. embargo and outdated infrastructure for the situation. Protests have erupted, and the government has threatened severe punishments for disorder. The crisis has led to unprecedented emigration, with nearly 20% of the population leaving in recent years. The situation highlights the long-standing economic mismanagement and challenges faced by the Cuban regime.
A Nationwide Blackout, Now a Hurricane. How Much Can Cuba Endure?
Cuba is grappling with a severe crisis marked by widespread power outages and the impact of Hurricane Oscar, exacerbating existing shortages of food and gas. The situation has led to significant distress among residents, with experts warning of potential social unrest. The Cuban government's handling of the crisis is under scrutiny, as citizens express frustration and despair over the deteriorating conditions.
The crisis in Cuba worsens due to a hurricane and national blackouts
Cuba is facing a severe crisis exacerbated by a hurricane and prolonged national blackouts, leading to widespread shortages of food and gas. Residents like Lidia Núñez Gómez and her daughter Nilza Valdés Núñez are struggling with the lack of electricity and essential supplies, highlighting the dire conditions and emotional toll on the population.
Biden’s Cuba Policy Has the Island in Shambles
The article discusses the impact of US sanctions on Cuba, particularly under the Trump and Biden administrations, which have exacerbated the island's economic and humanitarian crisis. Despite initial expectations that Biden would reverse Trump's policies, the current administration has intensified sanctions, affecting Cuba's tourism industry and overall economy. The sanctions have led to severe shortages of food and medicine, power outages, and a mass exodus of Cubans seeking better opportunities abroad. The article criticizes the US for maintaining Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, arguing that it has further isolated the island economically. It highlights the complex interplay between internal Cuban economic issues and external pressures from US policies, ultimately questioning the effectiveness and humanitarian impact of such sanctions.
Russian naval drills in the Caribbean are a PR stunt, researcher says
A US Navy submarine has arrived in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as Russian warships gather for military exercises in the Caribbean. Jeffrey Hawn, a researcher at the London School of Economics, suggests the small size of the Russian fleet indicates the drills are largely symbolic, serving more as a public relations effort than a significant military maneuver.
Congressional Leaders Urged by Biden to Pass Foreign Aid Package Following Iran’s Attack on Israel
President Biden has urged congressional leaders to pass a foreign aid package in response to Iran's attack on Israel. Iran and its proxies launched over 300 rockets towards Israel, raising concerns of a wider conflict. Meanwhile, former President Trump's trial in New York City, related to hush-money payments, has begun with jury selection. Experts criticize Biden's approach to Iran, claiming it emboldened Tehran. Additionally, Italy's antitrust regulator is investigating Ryanair, and Japan's JERA Co. has established a renewables-focused unit in Britain.
Soaring petrol prices in Cuba are a cause of great concern for Havana residents
Petrol prices in Cuba have soared by 500 percent since Friday, as part of the government's major stabilization plan to address the economic crisis. Long queues at petrol stations have become a common sight, with motorists spending hours waiting to refuel. The price hike, delayed by a month, is due to Cuba importing oil at market prices while selling it domestically at much lower rates, leading to a substantial fiscal deficit. Cubans, already struggling with inflation and stagnant wages, are greatly concerned about the increased cost of petrol.
Cuba health and education hollowed out as staff join emigration exodus
Cuba is experiencing a significant brain drain in its health and education sectors as professionals emigrate due to economic hardships exacerbated by US sanctions and a struggling economy. State wages have plummeted, leading to a mass exodus of teachers and healthcare workers. The private sector is absorbing much of the remaining talent, further straining public services. The US has implemented a humanitarian parole program to manage the influx of Cuban migrants, who benefit from unique entitlements once in the US. The situation underscores the severe impact of economic policies and sanctions on Cuba's public sector.
Cuba shouldn't be on sponsor of terrorism list, former U.S. officials say
Cuba remains on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, a designation criticized by former U.S. officials and intelligence analysts as unfounded. The listing imposes sanctions that hinder Cuba's financial transactions and economic recovery. Critics argue the designation is politically motivated and delegitimizes the tool meant for actual state sponsors of terrorism. The Trump administration reinstated Cuba on the list, citing its support for Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro and harboring U.S. fugitives, claims disputed by experts. The Biden administration has not provided evidence to justify the designation, impacting travel and economic relations.
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