(Photo: Aid to the Church in Need)
As Cuba faces potential strife over new oil supply restrictions, the nation’s Catholic bishops have raised concerns about the potential impacts on the most vulnerable. Their message, delivered in parishes across the country, draws attention to the risks of social unrest amid growing tensions between Cuba and the United States.
Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), a major supporter of the Cuban Church, reported that the bishops made a heartfelt call to “all Cubans of goodwill,” specifically addressing political leaders and decision-makers.
The bishops’ statement emphasizes that any further limitations on fuel could disproportionately affect families already struggling to make ends meet.
This development comes after the January 26 announcement by US President Donald Trump, imposing sanctions on nations that continue to provide oil to Cuba. This policy has heightened the already strained relations between Havana and Washington.
Cuba is one of Latin America’s poorest nations, grappling with severe inflation, food scarcity, and ongoing poverty, which have exacerbated in recent months, leaving many citizens anxious about what lies ahead.
ACN noted that the bishops highlighted the fear of fuel blockades, which has significantly worried those with limited resources.
They expressed concerns over possible unrest and violence, asserting that “no Cuban of goodwill would rejoice in this.”
While acknowledging the necessity for reform, the bishops insisted that it should not come at the cost of additional suffering.
They stated: “No more loss of life or mourning within Cuban families. We have had enough of this in our recent history!
“We want – and hope for – a new, prosperous, and happy Cuba, but not at the expense of the suffering of the country’s poor, of the elderly, of the sick and of the children.”
The bishops urged that dialogue and diplomacy are crucial for a sustainable resolution.
They reiterated the Holy See’s long-held stance that international conflicts should be settled through negotiation rather than force, cautioning that punitive measures might exacerbate injustices instead of remedying them.
They added: “Because, by talking, men can understand each other. And whenever there is good will, it is possible to find ways to solve conflicts and seek the triumph of truth and goodness, of justice, love and freedom.”
Pope Leo XIV recently reinforced this appeal in Rome, addressing a large gathering: “I echo the message of the Cuban bishops, inviting all responsible parties to promote a sincere and effective dialogue, in order to avoid violence and every action that could increase the suffering of the dear Cuban people.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
