The United States imposed sanctions on Cuba's defence minister and a special forces unit for repressing peaceful protests as President Joe Biden warned that this is "just the beginning" of punitive measures against Havana.

The United States imposed sanctions on Cuba's defence minister and a special forces unit for repressing peaceful protests as President Joe Biden warned that this is "just the beginning" of punitive measures against Havana. The US Treasury Department said its Office of Foreign Assets Control froze the assets of minister Alvaro Lopez Miera and the Special National Brigade (SNB) concerning human rights abuses committed during a crackdown on protests on the island earlier in July. "This is just the beginning -- the United States will continue to sanction individuals responsible for oppression of the Cuban people," Biden said in a statement. The sanctions were imposed under the Magnitsky act. This act allows a US president to take action against human rights abuses and corruption. Also read | Faced with rare protests, Cuba curbs social media access, watchdog says Biden said that his administration targeted Lopez Miera and the SNB because they were "driving the crackdown". "As we hold the Cuban regime accountable, our support for the Cuban people is unwavering," Biden said. The president also condemned what he termed as the "the mass detentions and sham trials" used to imprison and silence outspoken Cubans. Responding to this, Cuba called the sanctions "slanderous" and said that the US should focus more on repression and police brutality on its own soil. "I reject unfounded and slanderous sanctions by the US government" against the Cubans targeted, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said on Twitter. "Treasury will continue to enforce its Cuba-related sanctions, including those imposed today, to support the people of Cuba in their quest for democracy and relief from the Cuban regime," Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said.

US sanctions Cuba for repressing protests

In Pics | Young activists gather for freedom rally in Cuba

Unprecedented anti-government protests broke out in Cuba on July 11, which the single-party state leadership blames on a Twitter campaign orchestrated by the United States.

But experts AFP spoke to say that view is at best an exaggeration.

"I have irrefutable proof that the majority of those that took part in this (internet) campaign were in the United States and used automated systems to make content go viral, without being penalized by Twitter," Cuba's Foreign Affairs Minister Bruno Rodriguez said Tuesday.

Rodriguez had already denied that the island nation experienced a "social explosion" when thousands of people took to the streets chanting "Freedom!" and "Down with the dictatorship!"

The minister called it a "communication and information war against Cuba."

So who is to blame? Authorities point to the hashtag #SOSCuba, launched in early July to highlight Cuba's healthcare crisis, the spike in Covid-19 cases, and to plead for foreign humanitarian aid.

Spanish social media expert Julian Macias Tovar, who was invited to speak on Cuban state television on Tuesday, says there is something strange in the figures around the hashtag.

"Between July 5, when the #SOSCuba hashtag was first used, and the eighth, there were just 5,000 tweets," Macias Tovar told AFP.

It then exploded exponentially, he said, with 100,000 tweets on July 9, 500,00 on the 10th, 1.5 million the next day and two million on the 12th.

Attack on the left

The accounts tweeting with the #SOSCuba hashtag "came from many different places, and I believe there's an international network of accounts linked ideologically," said Macias Tovar.

They are the same accounts that attacked Mexico's leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez and the leftist governments of Argentina and Spain, he said.

This is a case of fake accounts or automated accounts programmed to produce a large number of tweets, Macias Tovar said.

Doug Madory, the director of internet analysis at the IT firm Kentik, is more sceptical.

"Someone sends a tweet in the United States that puts people on the streets in Cuba? I find it hard to believe," he said.

"I don't know if one could sit and try to create a Twitter campaign that holds such sway over the average Cuban that out of the air they convince them to do things they wouldn't otherwise have done."

While he acknowledged there were automated tweets, it is "probably true also of the government themselves" given the similarity between tweets from its supporters.

On top of that, the government holds the ultimate weapon: it can cut off internet access, as it did between midday Sunday and Wednesday morning.

Once access was restored, social media sites remained offline for another 24 hours.

'War against Cuba'

The government has not confirmed it cut off internet access, although Rodriguez said Cuba had "a right to self-defence."

But on Tuesday night a presenter on state TV let slip the truth.

"I understand as a journalist ... the step taken to cut social media because that is where the war against Cuba is being waged," said presenter Arleen Rodriguez Derivet.

According to Cuban political scientist Harold Cardenas, "it would be a simplification to say it's a US campaign because there are obviously many other reasons behind the protests."

For example, he said, "I know communists that were detained the other day for taking part in protests.

"That's not to say that the United States has no responsibility in the unrest" through its sanctions that "intentionally asphyxiate the Cuban people."

It is true that social media has been "used to create parallel realities," since there has been an avalanche of fake news and doctored images shared in Cuba over recent days.

"There has been an effort from abroad to create uncertainty in the country," said Cardenas.

But the government is "attributing an exaggerated importance to Twitter," and people are genuinely "fed up and economically exhausted."

Macias Tovar agrees with Cardenas. "Beyond this being a campaign orchestrated" from abroad, he said, "there are people who are mobilizing, people who are demonstrating against the government, people who have petitions -- what the Cuban government must do is respect the right to protest."

Unprecedented anti-government protests broke out in Cuba on July 11, which the single-party state leadership blames on a Twitter campaign orchestrated by the United States.

Unprecedented anti-government protests broke out in Cuba on July 11, which the single-party state leadership blames on a Twitter campaign orchestrated by the United States. But experts AFP spoke to say that view is at best an exaggeration. "I have irrefutable proof that the majority of those that took part in this (internet) campaign were in the United States and used automated systems to make content go viral, without being penalized by Twitter," Cuba's Foreign Affairs Minister Bruno Rodriguez said Tuesday. Rodriguez had already denied that the island nation experienced a "social explosion" when thousands of people took to the streets chanting "Freedom!" and "Down with the dictatorship!" The minister called it a "communication and information war against Cuba." So who is to blame? Authorities point to the hashtag #SOSCuba, launched in early July to highlight Cuba's healthcare crisis, the spike in Covid-19 cases, and to plead for foreign humanitarian aid. Spanish social media expert Julian Macias Tovar, who was invited to speak on Cuban state television on Tuesday, says there is something strange in the figures around the hashtag. "Between July 5, when the #SOSCuba hashtag was first used, and the eighth, there were just 5,000 tweets," Macias Tovar told AFP. It then exploded exponentially, he said, with 100,000 tweets on July 9, 500,00 on the 10th, 1.5 million the next day and two million on the 12th. Attack on the left The accounts tweeting with the #SOSCuba hashtag "came from many different places, and I believe there's an international network of accounts linked ideologically," said Macias Tovar. They are the same accounts that attacked Mexico's leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez and the leftist governments of Argentina and Spain, he said. This is a case of fake accounts or automated accounts programmed to produce a large number of tweets, Macias Tovar said. Doug Madory, the director of internet analysis at the IT firm Kentik, is more sceptical. "Someone sends a tweet in the United States that puts people on the streets in Cuba? I find it hard to believe," he said. "I don't know if one could sit and try to create a Twitter campaign that holds such sway over the average Cuban that out of the air they convince them to do things they wouldn't otherwise have done." While he acknowledged there were automated tweets, it is "probably true also of the government themselves" given the similarity between tweets from its supporters. On top of that, the government holds the ultimate weapon: it can cut off internet access, as it did between midday Sunday and Wednesday morning. Once access was restored, social media sites remained offline for another 24 hours. 'War against Cuba' The government has not confirmed it cut off internet access, although Rodriguez said Cuba had "a right to self-defence." But on Tuesday night a presenter on state TV let slip the truth. "I understand as a journalist ... the step taken to cut social media because that is where the war against Cuba is being waged," said presenter Arleen Rodriguez Derivet. According to Cuban political scientist Harold Cardenas, "it would be a simplification to say it's a US campaign because there are obviously many other reasons behind the protests." For example, he said, "I know communists that were detained the other day for taking part in protests. "That's not to say that the United States has no responsibility in the unrest" through its sanctions that "intentionally asphyxiate the Cuban people." It is true that social media has been "used to create parallel realities," since there has been an avalanche of fake news and doctored images shared in Cuba over recent days. "There has been an effort from abroad to create uncertainty in the country," said Cardenas. But the government is "attributing an exaggerated importance to Twitter," and people are genuinely "fed up and economically exhausted." Macias Tovar agrees with Cardenas. "Beyond this being a campaign orchestrated" from abroad, he said, "there are people who are mobilizing, people who are demonstrating against the government, people who have petitions -- what the Cuban government must do is respect the right to protest."

Cuban government blames Twitter for unrest

One person has been dead and dozens have been arrested in Cuba after thousands joined the biggest protests for decades against the Communist government. The government has restricted access to social media and messaging platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp in the country.

Cuba protests: One person dead, several arrested after rare demonstrations

Cuba has restricted access to social media and messaging platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp, in the wake of the biggest anti-government protests in decades.

Cuba restricts access to social media platforms to curb protests

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the US sanctions for the anti-government protests in the country. This comes after United States President Joe Biden said he "stands with the Cuban people".

Cuban President blames US sanctions for anti-government protests

After US President Joe Biden said he "stands with the Cuban people", President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the US sanctions for the protests in the country.

Biden had said the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/down-with-communism-cuban-protesters-demand-freedom-food-and-covid-19-vaccines-397504"> Cuban</a> regime should hear its people and "serve their needs" as protests erupted against the government even as Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the US sanctions were responsible for the "policy of economic suffocation to provoke social unrest in the country."

Watch:

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US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan had warned Cuba earlier while condemning&nbsp;the authorities the "targeting of peaceful protesters".

Meanwhile, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador&nbsp;offered medicines&nbsp;with coronavirus vaccines, however, he warned against "interventionist political management".

Obrador had called for the US economic sanctions to end as protesters came out on the streets on Sunday&nbsp;over the shortage of basic needs in the country. The Cuban President called for a "humanitarian gesture" as Cubans called President Miguel to step down.

People came out on the streets in Havana and several others places including Santiago as the country struggles amid the pandemic. It was the largest anti-government protest in decades as people chanted “Diaz-Canel step down”.

At least ten&nbsp;people were arrested by authorities.

Amid the volatile situation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-against-outside-interference-over-cuba-protests-397672">Russia's</a> foreign ministry said it is "unacceptable" for there to be outside interference in the internal affairs of the country.

The country has been hit hard due to the pandemic with the vaccine drive going at a slow rate even as the country's economy has contracted in the past year.

On Sunday, Cuba recorded &nbsp;6,923 COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths with hospitals under pressure to treat patients.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

After US President Joe Biden said he "stands with the Cuban people", President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the US sanctions for the protests in the country. Biden had said the Cuban regime should hear its people and "serve their needs" as protests erupted against the government even as Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the US sanctions were responsible for the "policy of economic suffocation to provoke social unrest in the country.

After US President Joe Biden said he "stands with the Cuban people", President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the US sanctions for the protests in the country. Biden had said the Cuban regime should hear its people and "serve their needs" as protests erupted against the government even as Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the US sanctions were responsible for the "policy of economic suffocation to provoke social unrest in the country." Watch: US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan had warned Cuba earlier while condemning the authorities the "targeting of peaceful protesters". Meanwhile, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador offered medicines with coronavirus vaccines, however, he warned against "interventionist political management". Obrador had called for the US economic sanctions to end as protesters came out on the streets on Sunday over the shortage of basic needs in the country. The Cuban President called for a "humanitarian gesture" as Cubans called President Miguel to step down. People came out on the streets in Havana and several others places including Santiago as the country struggles amid the pandemic. It was the largest anti-government protest in decades as people chanted “Diaz-Canel step down”. At least ten people were arrested by authorities. Amid the volatile situation, Russia's foreign ministry said it is "unacceptable" for there to be outside interference in the internal affairs of the country. The country has been hit hard due to the pandemic with the vaccine drive going at a slow rate even as the country's economy has contracted in the past year. On Sunday, Cuba recorded 6,923 COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths with hospitals under pressure to treat patients. (With inputs from Agencies)

Thousands of anti-government protesters flooded the streets in major Cuban cities, demanding the resignation of President Diaz-Canel. Is the communist magic waning in Cuba?

Gravitas: Rare anti-government protests in Communist Cuba

Russia on Monday gave warning against "outside interference" in Cuba which saw thousands taking part in rare protests against the Communist government on the island. Cuba's capital Havana was rocked by the protests that saw citizens asking for food, vaccines and more. Cuba has not been able to control coronavirus within its own borders.

"We consider it unacceptable for there to be outside interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state or any destructive actions that would encourage the destabilisation of the situation on the island," foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement.

She didn't explicitly say what she meant by outside interference but her comments are being interpreted as Russia's warning directed at the United States. Thousands of Cuban-Americans have taken to streets in America to show solidarity with those protesting in Cuba.&nbsp;

"We are closely following the development of the situation in and around Cuba," Zakharova said.

"We are convinced that Cuban authorities are taking all necessary measures to restore public order in the interests of the country's citizens and within the framework of the Constitution."

Cuba was an important Cold War ally of the Soviet Union and Moscow has continued to have good diplomatic relations with Havana since the 1991 collapse of the USSR.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Monday gave warning against "outside interference" in Cuba which saw thousands taking part in rare protests against the Communist government on the island.

Russia on Monday gave warning against "outside interference" in Cuba which saw thousands taking part in rare protests against the Communist government on the island. Cuba's capital Havana was rocked by the protests that saw citizens asking for food, vaccines and more. Cuba has not been able to control coronavirus within its own borders. "We consider it unacceptable for there to be outside interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state or any destructive actions that would encourage the destabilisation of the situation on the island," foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement. She didn't explicitly say what she meant by outside interference but her comments are being interpreted as Russia's warning directed at the United States. Thousands of Cuban-Americans have taken to streets in America to show solidarity with those protesting in Cuba. "We are closely following the development of the situation in and around Cuba," Zakharova said. "We are convinced that Cuban authorities are taking all necessary measures to restore public order in the interests of the country's citizens and within the framework of the Constitution." Cuba was an important Cold War ally of the Soviet Union and Moscow has continued to have good diplomatic relations with Havana since the 1991 collapse of the USSR. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia warns against 'outside interference' over Cuba protests

Cuba: Anti-government protests rock the communist bastion

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Cuba on Sunday to protest against the government's inappropriate handling of the COVID-19 crisis and worsening economic conditions.

Anti-government protests erupt in Cuba over worsening economic conditions

Cuba&nbsp;on Friday approved its home-grown Abdala vaccine for emergency use, the first Latin American coronavirus jab to reach this stage and a possible lifeline for a region trying to battle a killer pandemic with modest means.

The country's CECMED health regulator gave the go-ahead after Abdala's makers last month announced the vaccine candidate was more than 92 per cent effective at preventing Covid-19 disease after three doses.

Cuba&nbsp;is working on five coronavirus vaccines, and in May started immunizing its population using two of them -- Abdala and Soberana 2 -- even before they received approval.&nbsp;

By this week, 6.8 million of&nbsp;Cuba's 11.2 million people have received at least one dose of either vaccine, while 1.6 million have the required three doses.

The country has not bought or sought vaccines from elsewhere and aims to immunize its population before the end of the year.

In June, the state-run BioCubaFarma laboratory said Abdala "shows the efficacy of 92.28 per cent in its three-dose scheme."

The World Health Organization has set a 50-per cent efficacy threshold for coronavirus vaccines to qualifying for an approved global roll-out, though individual countries can green-light jabs without the UN stamp for domestic use.

The CECMED said approval of Abdala was based on its analysis that it met requirements for "quality, safety and effectiveness."

And Aica Laboratories, where the vaccine is produced, said there had been "a rigorous process of evaluation of the dossier and... inspections of the plants involved."

Under American sanctions, communist&nbsp;Cuba&nbsp;has a long tradition of making its own vaccines, dating back to the 1980s.

Nearly 80 per cent of its inoculations are produced locally.

Soberana 2 next?

On Thursday, the Finlay Institute which makes Soberana 2 said it, too, showed efficacy exceeding 91 per cent after three doses.

Eduardo Martinez, president of BioCubaFarma, said Soberana 2 will be submitted to the regulatory authority in the coming days for its own emergency approval.

Cuba&nbsp;has recorded more than 224,000 COVID-19 cases among its population of 11.2 million and some 1,450 deaths.&nbsp;

It has seen a recent spike in infections, with a new daily infection record reported Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-us-sending-15-million-covid-vaccine-doses-to-nepal-500000-to-bhutan-white-house-397107">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19: US sending 1.5 million Covid vaccine doses to Nepal, 500,000 to Bhutan — White House</a>

On Wednesday, authorities sent an urgent deployment of doctors and medical equipment to the province of Matanzas -- where foreign tourists have continued to visit -- after hospitals there reached capacity.

A local company has been commissioned to make more hospital beds for Matanzas and there is a social media campaign to raise donations.&nbsp;

Elsewhere in Latin America, the situation remains worrying.

Brazil has the world's second-highest death toll -- more than 530,000. Colombia recently crossed the grim threshold of 100,000 coronavirus deaths and Peru is now the country with the world's highest death toll per capita.

Mexico, whose recorded death toll of 234,000 is the fourth-highest in the world, said Tuesday it is battling a fresh pandemic wave.

A locally produced vaccine offers a glimpse of hope for Latin America and the Caribbean, a region which the UN says has fully vaccinated just over 13.6 per cent of its population compared to 34.9 per cent in the European Union and 46.3 per cent in North America.

The region comprises a third of the world's coronavirus death toll despite representing just 8.4 per cent of the global population.

Venezuela has signed a contract to purchase 12 million doses of Abdala and has already started using the Cuban jab in its vaccination campaign.

Argentina's health minister visited the island in May to discuss a possible vaccine deal and Mexico has expressed interest.

There is no requirement for the WHO to approve such bilateral vaccine deals.

Abdala and Soberana 2 are recombinant protein vaccines that work by recreating the "spikes" on the surface of the coronavirus and introducing it to the body, training the immune system to recognize intruders and fight back in case of a real infection.

Recombinant vaccines, unlike some coronavirus shots already in use, do not need extreme refrigeration.

Cuba on Friday approved its home-grown Abdala vaccine for emergency use, the first Latin American coronavirus jab to reach this stage and a possible lifeline for a region trying to battle a killer pandemic with modest means.

Cuba on Friday approved its home-grown Abdala vaccine for emergency use, the first Latin American coronavirus jab to reach this stage and a possible lifeline for a region trying to battle a killer pandemic with modest means. The country's CECMED health regulator gave the go-ahead after Abdala's makers last month announced the vaccine candidate was more than 92 per cent effective at preventing Covid-19 disease after three doses. Cuba is working on five coronavirus vaccines, and in May started immunizing its population using two of them -- Abdala and Soberana 2 -- even before they received approval. By this week, 6.8 million of Cuba's 11.2 million people have received at least one dose of either vaccine, while 1.6 million have the required three doses. The country has not bought or sought vaccines from elsewhere and aims to immunize its population before the end of the year. In June, the state-run BioCubaFarma laboratory said Abdala "shows the efficacy of 92.28 per cent in its three-dose scheme." The World Health Organization has set a 50-per cent efficacy threshold for coronavirus vaccines to qualifying for an approved global roll-out, though individual countries can green-light jabs without the UN stamp for domestic use. The CECMED said approval of Abdala was based on its analysis that it met requirements for "quality, safety and effectiveness." And Aica Laboratories, where the vaccine is produced, said there had been "a rigorous process of evaluation of the dossier and... inspections of the plants involved." Under American sanctions, communist Cuba has a long tradition of making its own vaccines, dating back to the 1980s. Nearly 80 per cent of its inoculations are produced locally. Soberana 2 next? On Thursday, the Finlay Institute which makes Soberana 2 said it, too, showed efficacy exceeding 91 per cent after three doses. Eduardo Martinez, president of BioCubaFarma, said Soberana 2 will be submitted to the regulatory authority in the coming days for its own emergency approval. Cuba has recorded more than 224,000 COVID-19 cases among its population of 11.2 million and some 1,450 deaths. It has seen a recent spike in infections, with a new daily infection record reported Friday. Also read | COVID-19: US sending 1.5 million Covid vaccine doses to Nepal, 500,000 to Bhutan — White House On Wednesday, authorities sent an urgent deployment of doctors and medical equipment to the province of Matanzas -- where foreign tourists have continued to visit -- after hospitals there reached capacity. A local company has been commissioned to make more hospital beds for Matanzas and there is a social media campaign to raise donations. Elsewhere in Latin America, the situation remains worrying. Brazil has the world's second-highest death toll -- more than 530,000. Colombia recently crossed the grim threshold of 100,000 coronavirus deaths and Peru is now the country with the world's highest death toll per capita. Mexico, whose recorded death toll of 234,000 is the fourth-highest in the world, said Tuesday it is battling a fresh pandemic wave. A locally produced vaccine offers a glimpse of hope for Latin America and the Caribbean, a region which the UN says has fully vaccinated just over 13.6 per cent of its population compared to 34.9 per cent in the European Union and 46.3 per cent in North America. The region comprises a third of the world's coronavirus death toll despite representing just 8.4 per cent of the global population. Venezuela has signed a contract to purchase 12 million doses of Abdala and has already started using the Cuban jab in its vaccination campaign. Argentina's health minister visited the island in May to discuss a possible vaccine deal and Mexico has expressed interest. There is no requirement for the WHO to approve such bilateral vaccine deals. Abdala and Soberana 2 are recombinant protein vaccines that work by recreating the "spikes" on the surface of the coronavirus and introducing it to the body, training the immune system to recognize intruders and fight back in case of a real infection. Recombinant vaccines, unlike some coronavirus shots already in use, do not need extreme refrigeration.

Cuba approves emergency use of home-grown COVID-19 vaccine

Tropical storm Elsa is sweeping through the Northern Caribbean battering Jamaica and Cuba with winds and rain the storm has claimed at least three lives so far.

Tropical storm Elsa cuts through Caribbean after claiming three lives

Tropical Storm Elsa churned late Saturday off the southwestern coast of Haiti, headed toward Jamaica and eastern Cuba as forecasters warned of heavy rains, flash flooding and mudslides.

The weather system brought maximum sustained winds of 65 miles (100 kilometres) per hour and was moving northwest at 17 miles per hour, the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said.

"There are fairly intense gusts of wind and light rain, but so far we have not recorded any damage," said Jerry Chandler, director of the Haitian Civil Protection Agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-faces-astrazeneca-vaccine-chaos-over-pm-morrisons-statement-394929">Also read |&nbsp;Australia faces AstraZeneca vaccine chaos over PM Morrison's statement</a>

Elsa was the Atlantic's first hurricane of the season on Friday, when it was a Category 1 storm, until being downgraded on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

The storm was not expected to change in strength overnight, with "some slight strengthening possible Sunday afternoon as Elsa approaches the south-central coast of Cuba," the NHC said in its 11 pm (0300 GMT Sunday) update.

Forecasters had warned of rainfall of 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 centimetres) across portions of southern Hispaniola and Jamaica, with isolated areas receiving 15 inches.

"This rain may lead to scattered flash flooding and mudslides, some of which may be significant in nature," the NHC said.

Cuba is Elsa's next target, with hurricane conditions expected on the eastern part of the island Sunday, while the southern coast could see a storm surge of 3 to 5 feet.

From Sunday into Monday, parts of Cuba could get 5 to 10 inches of rain, with isolated incidents of 15 inches resulting in "significant flash flooding and mudslides," the NHC said.

Haiti on alert

In Haiti, authorities raised the alert level to the maximum red on Saturday morning, warning the entire country to remain vigilant.

Officials in the impoverished nation have voiced fears that they lack emergency supplies such as food and water.

The government recently used a good part of its emergency resources in another crisis: the evacuation of thousands of people from their homes in Port-au-Prince because of raging gang violence.

Many of the displaced are staying in gyms, schools, or other public buildings, and some supplies originally earmarked for hurricane season have been diverted to support them, Chandler said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-orders-investigation-into-ransomware-attack-that-targetted-1000-businesses-395642">Also read |&nbsp;Joe Biden orders investigation into ransomware attack that targetted 1,000 businesses</a>

Authorities want to ship emergency supplies to the southern coast, but heavily armed gangs control part of the only road leading from the capital to the south and are allowing nothing through.

To reach these threatened areas, Chandler said, "we have to go through red zones," referring to gang-held territory.

In 2016, Category 4 Hurricane Matthew killed more than 500 people in southern Haiti and caused nearly $2 billion in damage.

Preparations in Florida

In the United States, parts of the Florida Keys were placed under a tropical storm watch on Saturday evening with forecasters expecting rain, storm surges, and strong winds from Elsa to affect the area and the Florida peninsula early next week.

Hurricane-related weather would be bad news for the Florida town of Surfside, near Miami, where rescuers are trying to dig out a collapsed condo building in search of survivors and bodies.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis told reporters Saturday that the part of the building still standing could be demolished before Elsa's arrival to protect the safety of the hundreds of search and rescue workers at the site.

The work could be completed within 36 hours, entailing "minimal work stoppage from the search and rescue teams," he said.

Meanwhile, the state expects to have 2.6 million drivers on the roads during the July 4 holiday weekend, according to South Florida's Sun-Sentinel newspaper, citing the AAA auto club.

"It isn't unreasonable for South Floridians to be ready for the potential of a Category 1 hurricane knocking on our door early next week," said Robert Garcia, a meteorologist with the National Hurricane Center, according to the paper.

"It is something that can't be ruled out, and folks should be aware that's something we may have to prepare for here during the holiday weekend."

Tropical Storm Elsa churned late Saturday off the southwestern coast of Haiti, headed toward Jamaica and eastern Cuba as forecasters warned of heavy rains, flash flooding and mudslides.

Tropical Storm Elsa churned late Saturday off the southwestern coast of Haiti, headed toward Jamaica and eastern Cuba as forecasters warned of heavy rains, flash flooding and mudslides. The weather system brought maximum sustained winds of 65 miles (100 kilometres) per hour and was moving northwest at 17 miles per hour, the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. "There are fairly intense gusts of wind and light rain, but so far we have not recorded any damage," said Jerry Chandler, director of the Haitian Civil Protection Agency. Also read | Australia faces AstraZeneca vaccine chaos over PM Morrison's statement Elsa was the Atlantic's first hurricane of the season on Friday, when it was a Category 1 storm, until being downgraded on Saturday afternoon. The storm was not expected to change in strength overnight, with "some slight strengthening possible Sunday afternoon as Elsa approaches the south-central coast of Cuba," the NHC said in its 11 pm (0300 GMT Sunday) update. Forecasters had warned of rainfall of 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 centimetres) across portions of southern Hispaniola and Jamaica, with isolated areas receiving 15 inches. "This rain may lead to scattered flash flooding and mudslides, some of which may be significant in nature," the NHC said. Cuba is Elsa's next target, with hurricane conditions expected on the eastern part of the island Sunday, while the southern coast could see a storm surge of 3 to 5 feet. From Sunday into Monday, parts of Cuba could get 5 to 10 inches of rain, with isolated incidents of 15 inches resulting in "significant flash flooding and mudslides," the NHC said. Haiti on alert In Haiti, authorities raised the alert level to the maximum red on Saturday morning, warning the entire country to remain vigilant. Officials in the impoverished nation have voiced fears that they lack emergency supplies such as food and water. The government recently used a good part of its emergency resources in another crisis: the evacuation of thousands of people from their homes in Port-au-Prince because of raging gang violence. Many of the displaced are staying in gyms, schools, or other public buildings, and some supplies originally earmarked for hurricane season have been diverted to support them, Chandler said. Also read | Joe Biden orders investigation into ransomware attack that targetted 1,000 businesses Authorities want to ship emergency supplies to the southern coast, but heavily armed gangs control part of the only road leading from the capital to the south and are allowing nothing through. To reach these threatened areas, Chandler said, "we have to go through red zones," referring to gang-held territory. In 2016, Category 4 Hurricane Matthew killed more than 500 people in southern Haiti and caused nearly $2 billion in damage. Preparations in Florida In the United States, parts of the Florida Keys were placed under a tropical storm watch on Saturday evening with forecasters expecting rain, storm surges, and strong winds from Elsa to affect the area and the Florida peninsula early next week. Hurricane-related weather would be bad news for the Florida town of Surfside, near Miami, where rescuers are trying to dig out a collapsed condo building in search of survivors and bodies. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis told reporters Saturday that the part of the building still standing could be demolished before Elsa's arrival to protect the safety of the hundreds of search and rescue workers at the site. The work could be completed within 36 hours, entailing "minimal work stoppage from the search and rescue teams," he said. Meanwhile, the state expects to have 2.6 million drivers on the roads during the July 4 holiday weekend, according to South Florida's Sun-Sentinel newspaper, citing the AAA auto club. "It isn't unreasonable for South Floridians to be ready for the potential of a Category 1 hurricane knocking on our door early next week," said Robert Garcia, a meteorologist with the National Hurricane Center, according to the paper. "It is something that can't be ruled out, and folks should be aware that's something we may have to prepare for here during the holiday weekend."

Tropical storm Elsa churns past Haiti, headed for Cuba

Cuba's Soberana 2 vaccine candidate has shown 62% efficacy with just two of its three doses, state-run biopharmaceutical corporation BioCubaFarma said on Saturday, citing preliminary data from late phase trials. 
 
Cuba, whose biotech sector has exported vaccines for decades, has five vaccine candidates in clinical trials, of which two - Soberana 2 and Abdala - are in late phase trials. 
 
"In a few weeks, we should have the results for the efficacy with three doses which we expect will be superior," said Vicente Vérez, director of the state-run Finlay Vaccine Institute, which developed Soberana 2. 
 
The news comes as the Caribbean's largest island is facing its worst outbreak since the start of the pandemic in the wake of the arrival of more contagious variants, setting new records of daily coronavirus cases. 
 
The Communist-run country has opted not to import foreign vaccines but rather to rely on its own. Experts say it is a risky bet but if it pays off, Cuba could burnish its scientific reputation, generate much-needed hard currency through exports and strengthen the vaccination drive worldwide. 
 
"We know our government has not been able to provide this project all the funding it required, and nonetheless this is a result of global standing," President Miguel Diaz-Canel said at the presentation of the results on state-run television. 
 
Several countries from Argentina and Jamaica to Mexico and Venezuela have expressed an interest in buying Cuba's vaccines. Iran started producing Soberana 2 earlier this year as part of late-phase clinical trials. 
 
Cuba's authorities have started administering the experimental vaccines en masse&nbsp;as part of 'intervention studies' they hope will slow the spread of the virus. 
 
Daily cases have halved in the capital since the start of this vaccination campaign, according to official data, although that may also be due to stricter lockdown measures. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Cuba's Soberana 2 vaccine candidate has shown 62% efficacy with just two of its three doses, state-run biopharmaceutical corporation BioCubaFarma said on Saturday, citing preliminary data from late phase trials.

Cuba's Soberana 2 vaccine candidate has shown 62% efficacy with just two of its three doses, state-run biopharmaceutical corporation BioCubaFarma said on Saturday, citing preliminary data from late phase trials. Cuba, whose biotech sector has exported vaccines for decades, has five vaccine candidates in clinical trials, of which two - Soberana 2 and Abdala - are in late phase trials. "In a few weeks, we should have the results for the efficacy with three doses which we expect will be superior," said Vicente Vérez, director of the state-run Finlay Vaccine Institute, which developed Soberana 2. The news comes as the Caribbean's largest island is facing its worst outbreak since the start of the pandemic in the wake of the arrival of more contagious variants, setting new records of daily coronavirus cases. The Communist-run country has opted not to import foreign vaccines but rather to rely on its own. Experts say it is a risky bet but if it pays off, Cuba could burnish its scientific reputation, generate much-needed hard currency through exports and strengthen the vaccination drive worldwide. "We know our government has not been able to provide this project all the funding it required, and nonetheless this is a result of global standing," President Miguel Diaz-Canel said at the presentation of the results on state-run television. Several countries from Argentina and Jamaica to Mexico and Venezuela have expressed an interest in buying Cuba's vaccines. Iran started producing Soberana 2 earlier this year as part of late-phase clinical trials. Cuba's authorities have started administering the experimental vaccines en masse as part of 'intervention studies' they hope will slow the spread of the virus. Daily cases have halved in the capital since the start of this vaccination campaign, according to official data, although that may also be due to stricter lockdown measures. (With inputs from agencies)

Cuba encouraged by early efficacy results of homegrown COVID-19 vaccine

Cuba said on Thursday it would temporarily stop accepting cash bank deposits in dollars, blaming tighter U.S. sanctions that are restricting its ability to use greenbacks abroad, although it will still accept transfers.

The move came shortly before the government was due to present its annual resolution to end the crippling, decades-old U.S. trade embargo on the Communist-run country at the United Nations General Assembly.

Some Cubans and analysts speculated it was an attempt to control the black market price of the dollar. That has risen to more than twice the official exchange rate since the import-dependent country started opening stores selling in hard currency and stopped selling greenbacks due to a cash crunch.

Cuban bank account holders will have until June 21 to deposit dollars before the suspension takes effect.

"It is ever more difficult for Cuba to find international banking or financing institutions willing to receive, convert or process U.S. currency in cash," the Cuban Central Bank said in a statement shared by state-run media.

It added that the measure would not affect operations carried out by transfer or deposits in other currencies that are freely convertible and accepted in Cuba.

More than 20 banks have stopped processing transactions involving Cuba since former President Donald Trump tightened U.S. sanctions on the island nation, Central Bank Vice President Yamile Berra Cires said in a roundtable discussion on state television.

For many years, Cuba had a 10% tax on dollars, citing how difficult it was for the government to use them because of the U.S. embargo.&nbsp;

But it lifted that tax last year as it opened more shops selling in hard cash rather than in the local currency.

U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, vowed during his campaign to reverse some of Republican Trump`s Cuba measures that “have inflicted harm on the Cuban people and done nothing to advance democracy and human rights.”

But he has yet to roll back any measures and his administration has said a shift in policy toward Cuba is not among its top foreign policy priorities.

Cuba said on Thursday it would temporarily stop accepting cash bank deposits in dollars, blaming tighter U.S. sanctions that are restricting its ability to use greenbacks abroad, although it will still accept transfers.

Cuba said on Thursday it would temporarily stop accepting cash bank deposits in dollars, blaming tighter U.S. sanctions that are restricting its ability to use greenbacks abroad, although it will still accept transfers. The move came shortly before the government was due to present its annual resolution to end the crippling, decades-old U.S. trade embargo on the Communist-run country at the United Nations General Assembly. Some Cubans and analysts speculated it was an attempt to control the black market price of the dollar. That has risen to more than twice the official exchange rate since the import-dependent country started opening stores selling in hard currency and stopped selling greenbacks due to a cash crunch. Cuban bank account holders will have until June 21 to deposit dollars before the suspension takes effect. "It is ever more difficult for Cuba to find international banking or financing institutions willing to receive, convert or process U.S. currency in cash," the Cuban Central Bank said in a statement shared by state-run media. It added that the measure would not affect operations carried out by transfer or deposits in other currencies that are freely convertible and accepted in Cuba. More than 20 banks have stopped processing transactions involving Cuba since former President Donald Trump tightened U.S. sanctions on the island nation, Central Bank Vice President Yamile Berra Cires said in a roundtable discussion on state television. For many years, Cuba had a 10% tax on dollars, citing how difficult it was for the government to use them because of the U.S. embargo. But it lifted that tax last year as it opened more shops selling in hard cash rather than in the local currency. U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, vowed during his campaign to reverse some of Republican Trump`s Cuba measures that “have inflicted harm on the Cuban people and done nothing to advance democracy and human rights.” But he has yet to roll back any measures and his administration has said a shift in policy toward Cuba is not among its top foreign policy priorities.

Cuba suspending cash bank deposits in dollars, citing US sanctions

Havana Zoo introduces Cuba's first Yanek, a rare white tiger

For the past two decades, the 62-year old Leonardo Carrillo has cared for the colony of around 100 brown pelicans that land in his village of Guanimar in December to spend the winter months there before heading back northwards for the summer.

Pelicans befriend Cuban man living by the sea

Dissident Cuban artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara vowed on Monday to 'continue the struggle' after spending almost a month in hospital following a hunger strike.

Otero Alcantara, 33, was released earlier in the day from the General Calixto Garcia university hospital, which announced 'his complete recovery'.

Associates had claimed he was forcibly taken to hospital after starting a hunger strike that lasted eight days.

"After a month in the hands of the beast, we'll see how things go in the streets to continue the struggle," Otero Alcantara said in a video published by opposition media Cubanet.

He said state security forces had taken his mobile telephone and left him "literally a month without communication and with little access to my family," adding that he would soon "recount everything that happened to me."

Otero Alcantara is the leader of the San Isidro protest movement (MSI) of artists and intellectuals pressing for free speech and other rights in the communist nation.

The Cuban government accuses Otero Alcantara of being financed by the United States, which has had sanctions in place against Cuba for decades.

He went on hunger strike last month to protest against authorities seizing several of his works when he was arrested during a demonstration.

He was admitted to hospital on May 2.

His release was announced by the Havana public health authority.

Otero Alcantara "reiterated his gratitude to the personnel that looked after him at every opportunity," said the hospital.

In the early days of his hospital stay, authorities released videos of him appearing in good health but those close to Otero Alcantara said they had been unable to communicate with him.

Amnesty International described him as a 'prisoner of conscience' while the US demanded his immediate release.

After his arrest last month, he was freed but rearrested several times for trying to leave his home, which had been surrounded by police.

During his hunger strike, his internet service was cut off and police prevented people, including two priests, from visiting Otero Alcantara.

The MSI claimed he'd been taken to hospital by force and that official medical reports on his condition were 'confusing and contradictory'.

In a sign of solidarity, last week around 20 Cuban artists asked that their works in Havana's Fine Arts Museum be hidden from public view.

The museum rejected the request, saying it wasn't in 'the public interest's

Painter Tomas Sanchez, 73, wrote on Facebook: "Cuban art is going through dark times ... the criminalization of difference is not -- and never will be -- a path towards coexistence."

(With inputs from agencies)

Dissident Cuban artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara vowed on Monday to 'continue the struggle' after spending almost a month in hospital following a hunger strike.

Dissident Cuban artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara vowed on Monday to 'continue the struggle' after spending almost a month in hospital following a hunger strike. Otero Alcantara, 33, was released earlier in the day from the General Calixto Garcia university hospital, which announced 'his complete recovery'. Associates had claimed he was forcibly taken to hospital after starting a hunger strike that lasted eight days. "After a month in the hands of the beast, we'll see how things go in the streets to continue the struggle," Otero Alcantara said in a video published by opposition media Cubanet. He said state security forces had taken his mobile telephone and left him "literally a month without communication and with little access to my family," adding that he would soon "recount everything that happened to me." Otero Alcantara is the leader of the San Isidro protest movement (MSI) of artists and intellectuals pressing for free speech and other rights in the communist nation. The Cuban government accuses Otero Alcantara of being financed by the United States, which has had sanctions in place against Cuba for decades. He went on hunger strike last month to protest against authorities seizing several of his works when he was arrested during a demonstration. He was admitted to hospital on May 2. His release was announced by the Havana public health authority. Otero Alcantara "reiterated his gratitude to the personnel that looked after him at every opportunity," said the hospital. In the early days of his hospital stay, authorities released videos of him appearing in good health but those close to Otero Alcantara said they had been unable to communicate with him. Amnesty International described him as a 'prisoner of conscience' while the US demanded his immediate release. After his arrest last month, he was freed but rearrested several times for trying to leave his home, which had been surrounded by police. During his hunger strike, his internet service was cut off and police prevented people, including two priests, from visiting Otero Alcantara. The MSI claimed he'd been taken to hospital by force and that official medical reports on his condition were 'confusing and contradictory'. In a sign of solidarity, last week around 20 Cuban artists asked that their works in Havana's Fine Arts Museum be hidden from public view. The museum rejected the request, saying it wasn't in 'the public interest's Painter Tomas Sanchez, 73, wrote on Facebook: "Cuban art is going through dark times ... the criminalization of difference is not -- and never will be -- a path towards coexistence." (With inputs from agencies)

Dissident Cuban artist to 'continue the struggle' after hospital release

From a building facing Havana's iconic Malecon waterfront, pigeon keepers crane out of a window, intently watching the grey birds take flight. Mostly staying indoors due to the country's worst outbreak of COVID-19 since the coronavirus pandemic began in March last year, Cubans are increasingly breeding pigeons as a form of escape.

Cubans turn to pigeon breeding as an escape from COVID-19

Amnesty International named one of Cuba`s leading dissidents a "prisoner of conscience" on Friday, saying state security appeared to have him under supervision and incommunicado at the hospital where authorities admitted him nearly three weeks ago. 
 
Artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara, 33, had been staging a hunger and thirst strike for seven days at his home in Old Havana to protest what he called state harassment when health officials transferred him to hospital on May 2. 
 
The Cuban health department said at the time that doctors found no sign of malnutrition and that Otero Alcantara was in stable condition. 
 
Supporters question why he remains in hospital and incommunicado, adding that police have blocked them from visiting him. Otero Alcantara did not reply to attempts by Reuters to contact him by phone and social media. 
 
Videos of him in hospital posted online by pro government accounts, including one on Thursday in which he appeared thinner and hunched over, have further fueled supporters` fears. 
 
Hospitals in Cuba are state-run and the International Press Center, which fields all requests from foreign journalists for comment from state entities, did not immediately reply to a request for comment on Otero Alcantara`s status. 
 
"Luis Manuel must not spend one more day under state custody," said Erika Guevara-Rosas, Americas director at Amnesty International. "It is time for the Cuban authorities to recognise that they cannot silence all the independent voices in the country." 
 
Otero Alcantara is the head of the San Isidro Movement, a group of a few dozen artists, writers and activists that has protested restrictions in Cuba on civil liberties for the last few years, often through provocative performances. 
 
Since it sparked a rare protest in front of the culture ministry in November, authorities have taken to state-run media to denounce its members and allies as agitators working with the United States to destabilise the government as Cuba`s economy goes through its worst crisis in decades. 
 
The movement denies the charges. Meanwhile the US&nbsp;State Department declined last month to directly address a Reuters` question about financing Cuban dissidents but said it supported those in civil society worldwide defending their rights. 
 
Exiled rights group Cubalex said five Cubans who were arrested in Old Havana on April 30 for protesting in support of Otero Alcantara remained in custody on Friday on charges of resisting authority and public disorder.

Amnesty International named one of Cuba`s leading dissidents a "prisoner of conscience" on Friday, saying state security appeared to have him under supervision and incommunicado at the hospital where authorities admitted him nearly three weeks ago.

Amnesty International named one of Cuba`s leading dissidents a "prisoner of conscience" on Friday, saying state security appeared to have him under supervision and incommunicado at the hospital where authorities admitted him nearly three weeks ago. Artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara, 33, had been staging a hunger and thirst strike for seven days at his home in Old Havana to protest what he called state harassment when health officials transferred him to hospital on May 2. The Cuban health department said at the time that doctors found no sign of malnutrition and that Otero Alcantara was in stable condition. Supporters question why he remains in hospital and incommunicado, adding that police have blocked them from visiting him. Otero Alcantara did not reply to attempts by Reuters to contact him by phone and social media. Videos of him in hospital posted online by pro government accounts, including one on Thursday in which he appeared thinner and hunched over, have further fueled supporters` fears. Hospitals in Cuba are state-run and the International Press Center, which fields all requests from foreign journalists for comment from state entities, did not immediately reply to a request for comment on Otero Alcantara`s status. "Luis Manuel must not spend one more day under state custody," said Erika Guevara-Rosas, Americas director at Amnesty International. "It is time for the Cuban authorities to recognise that they cannot silence all the independent voices in the country." Otero Alcantara is the head of the San Isidro Movement, a group of a few dozen artists, writers and activists that has protested restrictions in Cuba on civil liberties for the last few years, often through provocative performances. Since it sparked a rare protest in front of the culture ministry in November, authorities have taken to state-run media to denounce its members and allies as agitators working with the United States to destabilise the government as Cuba`s economy goes through its worst crisis in decades. The movement denies the charges. Meanwhile the US State Department declined last month to directly address a Reuters` question about financing Cuban dissidents but said it supported those in civil society worldwide defending their rights. Exiled rights group Cubalex said five Cubans who were arrested in Old Havana on April 30 for protesting in support of Otero Alcantara remained in custody on Friday on charges of resisting authority and public disorder.

Amnesty calls hospitalised Cuban dissident 'prisoner of conscience'

Havana's main avenue on Monday saw a rainbow flag draped over a government building as lawmakers prepared a new code that could allow same-sex marriage in Cuba.

Gay pride flag unfurled on Cuban gov't building for first time

Cuba's state cigar monopoly, Habanos SA, said on Tuesday that China had displaced Spain last year as its top market but rising demand in the Asian giant could not compensate for declines in sales elsewhere, with global revenue down 4% to $507 million.&nbsp;

Curbs on travel last year due to the pandemic dealt a serious blow to demand from countries reliant on tourism as well as sales at duty free, Habanos said in a statement.&nbsp;

Cuba's hand-rolled cigars, which include brands such as Cohiba, Montecristo and Partagas, are considered by many as the best in the world. &nbsp;

Habanos usually holds a festival early in the year for wealthy tobacco aficionados and retailers during which they tour plantations and factories and meet in the evenings to puff on Cuban smokes at extravagant parties. &nbsp;

This year, though, with Cuba grappling with its worst outbreak of COVID-19 yet and other countries also struggling to curb contagion, it is instead holding three days of virtual events, which kicked off on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"2020 has been a challenging year not just for our business but for the whole of humanity," Habanos said in a statement.&nbsp;

Cigars are one of the top exports for the Cuban economy, which shrank 11% last year as the pandemic and increased US sanctions exacerbated the cash crunch.&nbsp;

The Caribbean island cannot sell its signature export to the biggest market worldwide for cigars, the United States, due to the decades-old US trade embargo.&nbsp;

Europe remains the top regional market for Habanos, accounting for 50% of sales, followed by the Asian-Pacific area, which accounts for 16.2%, according to the statement.&nbsp;

The state-run Cuban News Agency cited Habanos officials at the event on Tuesday as saying that sales in Europe and Asia-Pacific had risen 2% and 10%, respectively. Revenue dropped 31% in Africa and the Middle East, however, and 21% in the Americas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Cuba's state cigar monopoly, Habanos SA, said on Tuesday that China had displaced Spain last year as its top market but rising demand in the Asian giant could not compensate for declines in sales elsewhere, with global revenue down 4% to $507 million.

Cuba's state cigar monopoly, Habanos SA, said on Tuesday that China had displaced Spain last year as its top market but rising demand in the Asian giant could not compensate for declines in sales elsewhere, with global revenue down 4% to $507 million. Curbs on travel last year due to the pandemic dealt a serious blow to demand from countries reliant on tourism as well as sales at duty free, Habanos said in a statement. Cuba's hand-rolled cigars, which include brands such as Cohiba, Montecristo and Partagas, are considered by many as the best in the world. Habanos usually holds a festival early in the year for wealthy tobacco aficionados and retailers during which they tour plantations and factories and meet in the evenings to puff on Cuban smokes at extravagant parties. This year, though, with Cuba grappling with its worst outbreak of COVID-19 yet and other countries also struggling to curb contagion, it is instead holding three days of virtual events, which kicked off on Tuesday. "2020 has been a challenging year not just for our business but for the whole of humanity," Habanos said in a statement. Cigars are one of the top exports for the Cuban economy, which shrank 11% last year as the pandemic and increased US sanctions exacerbated the cash crunch. The Caribbean island cannot sell its signature export to the biggest market worldwide for cigars, the United States, due to the decades-old US trade embargo. Europe remains the top regional market for Habanos, accounting for 50% of sales, followed by the Asian-Pacific area, which accounts for 16.2%, according to the statement. The state-run Cuban News Agency cited Habanos officials at the event on Tuesday as saying that sales in Europe and Asia-Pacific had risen 2% and 10%, respectively. Revenue dropped 31% in Africa and the Middle East, however, and 21% in the Americas. (With inputs from agencies)

China becomes top market for Cuba's legendary cigars 

Cuba marked the end of an era Monday with the official transfer of power from the Castro clan, in charge for six decades, to the communist country's first civilian leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel.

The transition, while hugely symbolic, is unlikely to result in dramatic policy shifts in the one-party system that Diaz-Canel, 60, has vowed to safeguard.

"The most revolutionary thing within the Revolution is to always defend the party, in the same way, that the party should be the greatest defender of the Revolution," he said on Monday.

Diaz-Canel added the outgoing leader, 89-year-old Raul Castro, would still be consulted on "strategic decisions."

From retirement, Castro would give "direction and alert to any error or deficiency, ready to confront imperialism as he first did with his rifle," said the new leader.

Cuba's president since 2018, Diaz-Canel has now also taken the most senior position of the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC).

The pre-determined power change at a four-day PCC congress in Havana marks a watershed for the country of 11.2 million people, many of whom have not known a leader who was not a Castro.

Fidel Castro, still revered as the country's father and saviour, led the country from 1959 to 2006, when he fell ill and his brother took over.

Diaz-Canel was born after the revolution led by the Castro siblings in the 1950s, leading in 1959 to the overthrow of dictator Fulgencio Batista.

The PCC congress was held 60 years after Fidel Castro declared Cuba a socialist state, setting up decades of conflict with the United States, which has had sanctions against the country since 1962.

The more things change

Diaz-Canel takes the reins as Cuba battles its worst economic crisis in 30 years, sky-high inflation, biting food shortages, long lines for necessities and growing disgruntlement over limited freedoms.

Cuba, one of just five communist countries in the world, faces constant shortages and needs to import 80 per cent of what it consumes.

"Since I was born, I have only known one party," said Miguel Gainza, a 58-year-old in Havana.

"And no one dies of hunger, it's true," he added. But today, "we are a little stuck, and it's a shame that Fidel is dead because he solved all our problems".

Diaz-Canel, a suit-and-tie wearing, tech-savvy Beatles fan, while in some ways more modern than the Castros with their love for military uniforms, is a staunch party disciple. Analysts say there is unlikely to be an ideological shift.

A new constitution passed in May 2019 made it clear that the country's commitment to socialism was "irrevocable."

There have been small nods to liberalization in recent years, including the recent opening up of the economy to small businesses in hundreds of sectors previously under exclusive state control.

Internet driving change

The internet, which arrived on mobile phones on the island in 2018, has been an engine of social change, even used to organize the protest, previously unheard of in the country.

Young Cubans, many of whom go overseas each year for lack of opportunities at home, are increasingly venting their frustration on social media.

In response, the PCC adopted a congress resolution to confront online political and ideological "subversion".

Even as the congress was underway, a group of free speech activists claimed their internet had been cut and police were preventing them from leaving their homes to stop them from gathering.

Party delegates voted Sunday for a new 114-member central committee, which in turn chose the 14 members of the PCC Polit bureau -- at the cusp of power in Cuba.

The Polit bureau, with Diaz-Canel at its head, has an average age of 61.6 and includes three women. Five of the 14 are newcomers.

Ties with the United States, after a historic but temporary easing of tensions under President Barack Obama between 2014 and 2016, worsened under Donald Trump, who reinforced sanctions.

In his final address to the party last Friday, Castro affirmed a "willingness to conduct a respectful dialogue and build a new kind of relationship with the United States."

But he stressed the country would not renounce "the principles of the revolution and socialism" as he urged the new generation to "zealously protect" the one-party dogma.

White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Friday the United States was not planning any immediate change in its policy toward Cuba, which would continue to focus on "support for democracy and human rights."

Cuba marked the end of an era Monday with the official transfer of power from the Castro clan, in charge for six decades, to the communist country's first civilian leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel.

Cuba marked the end of an era Monday with the official transfer of power from the Castro clan, in charge for six decades, to the communist country's first civilian leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel. The transition, while hugely symbolic, is unlikely to result in dramatic policy shifts in the one-party system that Diaz-Canel, 60, has vowed to safeguard. "The most revolutionary thing within the Revolution is to always defend the party, in the same way, that the party should be the greatest defender of the Revolution," he said on Monday. Diaz-Canel added the outgoing leader, 89-year-old Raul Castro, would still be consulted on "strategic decisions." From retirement, Castro would give "direction and alert to any error or deficiency, ready to confront imperialism as he first did with his rifle," said the new leader. Cuba's president since 2018, Diaz-Canel has now also taken the most senior position of the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC). The pre-determined power change at a four-day PCC congress in Havana marks a watershed for the country of 11.2 million people, many of whom have not known a leader who was not a Castro. Fidel Castro, still revered as the country's father and saviour, led the country from 1959 to 2006, when he fell ill and his brother took over. Diaz-Canel was born after the revolution led by the Castro siblings in the 1950s, leading in 1959 to the overthrow of dictator Fulgencio Batista. The PCC congress was held 60 years after Fidel Castro declared Cuba a socialist state, setting up decades of conflict with the United States, which has had sanctions against the country since 1962. The more things change Diaz-Canel takes the reins as Cuba battles its worst economic crisis in 30 years, sky-high inflation, biting food shortages, long lines for necessities and growing disgruntlement over limited freedoms. Cuba, one of just five communist countries in the world, faces constant shortages and needs to import 80 per cent of what it consumes. "Since I was born, I have only known one party," said Miguel Gainza, a 58-year-old in Havana. "And no one dies of hunger, it's true," he added. But today, "we are a little stuck, and it's a shame that Fidel is dead because he solved all our problems". Diaz-Canel, a suit-and-tie wearing, tech-savvy Beatles fan, while in some ways more modern than the Castros with their love for military uniforms, is a staunch party disciple. Analysts say there is unlikely to be an ideological shift. A new constitution passed in May 2019 made it clear that the country's commitment to socialism was "irrevocable." There have been small nods to liberalization in recent years, including the recent opening up of the economy to small businesses in hundreds of sectors previously under exclusive state control. Internet driving change The internet, which arrived on mobile phones on the island in 2018, has been an engine of social change, even used to organize the protest, previously unheard of in the country. Young Cubans, many of whom go overseas each year for lack of opportunities at home, are increasingly venting their frustration on social media. In response, the PCC adopted a congress resolution to confront online political and ideological "subversion". Even as the congress was underway, a group of free speech activists claimed their internet had been cut and police were preventing them from leaving their homes to stop them from gathering. Party delegates voted Sunday for a new 114-member central committee, which in turn chose the 14 members of the PCC Polit bureau -- at the cusp of power in Cuba. The Polit bureau, with Diaz-Canel at its head, has an average age of 61.6 and includes three women. Five of the 14 are newcomers. Ties with the United States, after a historic but temporary easing of tensions under President Barack Obama between 2014 and 2016, worsened under Donald Trump, who reinforced sanctions. In his final address to the party last Friday, Castro affirmed a "willingness to conduct a respectful dialogue and build a new kind of relationship with the United States." But he stressed the country would not renounce "the principles of the revolution and socialism" as he urged the new generation to "zealously protect" the one-party dogma. White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Friday the United States was not planning any immediate change in its policy toward Cuba, which would continue to focus on "support for democracy and human rights."

Cuba gets new leader Miguel Diaz-Canel as last Castro retires

Former Cuban President Raul Castro reigns as chief secretary of communist party of Cuba. Current President of Cuba Miguel Díaz-Canel who is communist party's first secretary will take over as the new chief secretary of the party.

Former Cuban President Raul Castro quits as head of Cuban Party

Meet Jorge Goliat, a heavy drinking and smoking Cuban "healer" who performs surgery with a machete and tells his patients that drinking enough rum will ward off the coronavirus. Though it might sound unorthodox, but Goliat's methods have proven popular with Cubans seeking alternatives to traditional medicine.

Cuban "healer" performs surgeries in Havana with a machete

Climate change is already impacting marine species diversity distribution, with changes being more dramatic in the Northern hemisphere where waters have warmed faster.

Cuba attempts to repopulate coral reefs

The apparent harder line toward Havana represents a shift from the Obama years as was evident in the 2020 elections.

Cuban Americans still oppose any change in US-Cuba relations

Donald Trump's administration has redesignated Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced to reverse the Obama-era decision.

US announces designation of Cuba as a terror state

Cuba will test its most advanced Covid vaccine candidate&nbsp;in Iran.

State-run Finlay Vaccine Institute (IFV) and the Pasteur Institute of Iran signed an agreement in Havana that will see a Phase 3 clinical trial in Iran, to "move forward faster in immunisation against Covid-19 in both countries," the IFV announced on Twitter.

It has been difficult to do Phase 3 clinical testing in Cuba because its outbreak has not been as serious as those in many larger countries.

The news came on the heels of Iran's supreme leader on Friday banning the import of American and British-produced vaccines against Covid-19, saying they were "completely untrustworthy."

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a tweet, accompanied by the hashtag #CoronaVaccine: "It's not unlikely they would want to contaminate other nations."

The Islamic republic has reported more than 1.2 million cases of the novel coronavirus, which have caused over 56,000 deaths.

It has accused the United States of hampering its access to vaccines through a tough sanctions regime.

The Sovereign 02 is the country's most advanced coronavirus vaccine candidate, showing "an early immune response (at 14 days)," IFV Director Vicente Verez said in December.

Although cases in Cuba are increasing due to the opening of its borders, the country of 11.2 million has seen about 14,000 cases and 148 deaths, lower figures than its neighbors in the region.

The Americas' only Communist-ruled state wants to have its entire population immunised with its own vaccines by the first half of 2021.

The Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology is working on two other vaccine candidates, called Mambisa and Abdala.

(with inputs)

Cuba will test its most advanced Covid vaccine candidate in Iran. State-run Finlay Vaccine Institute (IFV) and the Pasteur Institute of Iran signed an agreement in Havana that will see a Phase 3 clinical trial in Iran, to "move forward faster in immunisation against Covid-19 in both countries," the IFV announced on Twitter.

Cuba will test its most advanced Covid vaccine candidate in Iran. State-run Finlay Vaccine Institute (IFV) and the Pasteur Institute of Iran signed an agreement in Havana that will see a Phase 3 clinical trial in Iran, to "move forward faster in immunisation against Covid-19 in both countries," the IFV announced on Twitter. It has been difficult to do Phase 3 clinical testing in Cuba because its outbreak has not been as serious as those in many larger countries. The news came on the heels of Iran's supreme leader on Friday banning the import of American and British-produced vaccines against Covid-19, saying they were "completely untrustworthy." Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a tweet, accompanied by the hashtag #CoronaVaccine: "It's not unlikely they would want to contaminate other nations." The Islamic republic has reported more than 1.2 million cases of the novel coronavirus, which have caused over 56,000 deaths. It has accused the United States of hampering its access to vaccines through a tough sanctions regime. The Sovereign 02 is the country's most advanced coronavirus vaccine candidate, showing "an early immune response (at 14 days)," IFV Director Vicente Verez said in December. Although cases in Cuba are increasing due to the opening of its borders, the country of 11.2 million has seen about 14,000 cases and 148 deaths, lower figures than its neighbors in the region. The Americas' only Communist-ruled state wants to have its entire population immunised with its own vaccines by the first half of 2021. The Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology is working on two other vaccine candidates, called Mambisa and Abdala. (with inputs)

Cuba to test Covid vaccine candidate in Iran

Cuba will unify its two currencies, the Cuban peso and convertible peso, as of January 1, ending a unique system that has existed for nearly three decades, President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Thursday.

"We consider the conditions met to announce the start of this reform beginning January 1, 2021, with a single exchange rate of 24 Cuban pesos for one dollar," Diaz-Canel said on television, alongside Raul Castro, the country's former president and Communist Party leader.

The reform, which had been announced years ago and repeatedly postponed, is intended to make the Cuban economy more accessible to foreign investors.

The move "will place the country in a better condition for needed transformations by updating our economic model," he added.

The Communist leader acknowledged that was "one of the most complex tasks" facing the country, as it is buffeted by headwinds from a strengthening US embargo, the Covid-19 pandemic, and a global economic crisis.

The move, postponed for years as authorities waited for the best time to make the change, comes as the Cuban economy is expected to contract by 8 percent this year, according to the UN's Economic Commission for Latin America.

The reform will eliminate the &nbsp;convertible peso, or CUC, created in 1994 and linked to the dollar.&nbsp;

Only the Cuban peso, or CUP, will remain, which is worth 24 times less.&nbsp;

The currency reform comes after the island reintroduced the dollar in October 2019, with appliance and food stores which only accept that currency.

The value of the CUP could suffer against this strong currency.

Additionally, state enterprises, which receive a reduced rate of one CUP to the dollar, will see production costs rise, leading to price hikes.

The government has already announced significant wage increases to offset expected high inflation.

Cuba will unify its two currencies, the Cuban peso and convertible peso, as of January 1, ending a unique system that has existed for nearly three decades, President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Thursday.

Cuba will unify its two currencies, the Cuban peso and convertible peso, as of January 1, ending a unique system that has existed for nearly three decades, President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Thursday. "We consider the conditions met to announce the start of this reform beginning January 1, 2021, with a single exchange rate of 24 Cuban pesos for one dollar," Diaz-Canel said on television, alongside Raul Castro, the country's former president and Communist Party leader. The reform, which had been announced years ago and repeatedly postponed, is intended to make the Cuban economy more accessible to foreign investors. The move "will place the country in a better condition for needed transformations by updating our economic model," he added. The Communist leader acknowledged that was "one of the most complex tasks" facing the country, as it is buffeted by headwinds from a strengthening US embargo, the Covid-19 pandemic, and a global economic crisis. The move, postponed for years as authorities waited for the best time to make the change, comes as the Cuban economy is expected to contract by 8 percent this year, according to the UN's Economic Commission for Latin America. The reform will eliminate the convertible peso, or CUC, created in 1994 and linked to the dollar. Only the Cuban peso, or CUP, will remain, which is worth 24 times less. The currency reform comes after the island reintroduced the dollar in October 2019, with appliance and food stores which only accept that currency. The value of the CUP could suffer against this strong currency. Additionally, state enterprises, which receive a reduced rate of one CUP to the dollar, will see production costs rise, leading to price hikes. The government has already announced significant wage increases to offset expected high inflation.

Cuba to unify its two currencies as of January 1

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