Cuban Americans Debate Sending Aid to Relatives in Cuba

Fuel shortages and US sanctions have disrupted shipments of remittances and basic goods to the crisis-stricken island nation.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Despite logistical challenges and political tensions, many Cuban Americans in Florida continue to send essential supplies and money to family members in Cuba. However, some argue these shipments are propping up the communist government in Havana, leading to a heated debate within the Cuban diaspora community.

Why it matters

The ongoing economic and energy crisis in Cuba has revived a longstanding debate among Cuban Americans about whether they should continue providing aid to their relatives on the island or cut off shipments that some view as sustaining the Cuban government. This issue highlights the complex political and humanitarian dynamics at play as the US maintains sanctions on Cuba.

The details

Shipping companies in Florida have faced logistical issues in sending packages to Cuba due to fuel shortages, leading some to restrict or suspend deliveries. However, Cuban Americans continue lining up at remittance and shipping agencies to send cash, food, medicine and other basic necessities to their loved ones. Some argue these shipments are necessary to help regular Cubans who are suffering, while others advocate a complete cutoff to weaken the communist government.

  • In early 2026, the US Trump administration's sanctions on Venezuela have disrupted Cuba's oil supply, exacerbating the island's economic crisis.
  • In February 2026, some shipping companies in Florida have temporarily limited package deliveries to Cuba due to fuel shortages.

The players

Gisela Salgado

A 72-year-old Florida resident who emigrated from Cuba 40 years ago and continues sending supplies to her brother on the island.

Jose Rosell

An 81-year-old Florida resident sending food and toiletries to his 55-year-old son, a taxi driver in Santiago de Cuba who lost his job due to the fuel shortage.

Cubamax

One of the main agencies facilitating shipments and remittances to Cuba, which has temporarily suspended home deliveries and imposed a one-package-per-customer limit due to lack of fuel.

Alex Otaola

A Cuban American influencer and activist advocating for a complete cutoff of support to Cuba, even from family members, through his "Stoppage" campaign.

Emilio Morales

The leader of the Havana Consulting Group, a firm specializing in the Cuban economy, who believes that cutting off shipments "won't change the equation" as the Cuban government has limited access to remittances.

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What they’re saying

“Things there are terrible. People are starving, there's nothing. As long as my brother is there, I'll keep sending him things. He has nothing to do with the government, and if I don't send him anything, how will he eat?”

— Gisela Salgado

“The regime should be beheaded, which is what it deserves. But the people should not have to suffer.”

— Reina Carvallo, 59-year-old Cuban American

What’s next

The US government is expected to review the licensing of businesses involved in Cuba-related transactions, which could further impact the ability of Cuban Americans to send aid to the island.

The takeaway

The debate over whether Cuban Americans should continue providing remittances and basic supplies to their relatives in Cuba highlights the complex political and humanitarian dynamics at play as the US maintains economic sanctions on the communist-ruled island. While some argue the shipments are necessary to help regular Cubans, others view them as propping up the government in Havana.