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The Cuban American activist Carlos Lazo, known for his leadership in the "Bridges of Love" project, denounced that the Cuban authorities impose restrictions on the direct delivery of medical supplies and powdered milk to pediatric hospitals on the island.
In a statement on his social media, Lazo asserted that the regime is hindering the humanitarian work that his organization has been doing for years for the benefit of the Cuban population.
"'Bridges of Love' can no longer visit Cuban pediatric hospitals," he stated. This issue has been ongoing for months, but activists remain "focused on the task of bringing donations to Cuba," despite a "mysterious regulation" that prohibits them from visiting medical centers.
Lazo's denunciation marks a turning point in his discourse, after years of being seen as an ally of the Cuban government in its crusade against the U.S. embargo.
Since the founding of "Puentes de Amor," Lazo has advocated for the lifting of economic sanctions and held meetings with government representatives in Havana, including a hearing with Miguel Díaz-Canel in 2021. However, the current ban on accessing hospitals seems to have strained that relationship.
"When we visited the hospitals, in addition to documenting the delivery, we could witness firsthand the hardships caused by the blockade. (...) Apparently, extremism, suspicion, and silencing against us is not only a phenomenon in Miami. In Cuba, there are also things that discourage and offend those who fight for the Cuban family," said the activist.
From government defender to critic: A change in stance
The evolution of Lazo as a public figure is complex. In 2022, his open support for lifting the embargo, his visits to Cuba, and his meetings with the Cuban government earned him significant criticism from the exile community in Miami.
The Cuban community in Florida organized a campaign on Change.org that gathered more than 10,000 signatures to declare him a "persona non grata", accusing him of being a defender of the regime.
Marco Rubio, who at that time was the Republican senator from Florida, requested an FBI investigation into the possible connections of "Puentes de Amor" with the Cuban government, arguing that they operated as "unregistered foreign agents."
Lazo always denied these accusations, insisting that his only loyalty was to the Cuban family and not to any political agenda. However, the recent ban on accessing hospitals seems to have changed his perspective.
"It is not fair that worthy emigrated Cubans sacrifice so much only to be treated this way. It is not fair that those activists who face threats, insults, and dangers in Miami arrive in Cuba and are treated like pariahs. Neither there nor here can I remain indifferent when the efforts of the men and women who give so much for their people and for the Cuban family are belittled and silenced," lamented Lazo.
Disencounter with Havana: Are the Bridges of Love Collapsing?
Lazo reported that, in addition to preventing him from delivering donations directly, the Cuban authorities have instructed friends and institutions on the island not to collaborate with his project.
"We have attempted to clarify this situation at various levels, with institutions and officials. The responses are evasive. The institutions and bureaucrats we have tried to engage with to clear up this mess tell us that 'nothing is happening,' but the rudeness, discourtesies, and even verbal mistreatment that our activists have received show the opposite," he explained.
Lazo continues to reject the embargo and advocates for the normalization of relations between Cuba and the United States, but he has now focused his attention on "the internal blockade" of the Cuban regime.
"Neither regulations, nor misunderstandings, nor setbacks will prevent us from continuing to promote this work. This is a work of love. Love is everlasting. The Cuban family will move forward!" he concluded in his statement.
This shift in Lazo's narrative makes it clear that his criticism extends to both the U.S. sanctions and the obstacles imposed by the government of Miguel Díaz-Canel. The activist once again positions himself in a supposed neutral stance, acting as an uncomfortable figure for both ends of the Cuban political spectrum.
Frequently Asked Questions about Carlos Lazo's complaint and the situation regarding humanitarian aid to Cuba
Why does Carlos Lazo accuse the Cuban regime of blocking humanitarian aid?
Carlos Lazo denounces that the Cuban regime imposes restrictions on the direct delivery of medical supplies and food to pediatric hospitals, forcing donations to remain at the airport and prohibiting access to medical centers. This situation, according to Lazo, hampers his humanitarian efforts and reflects an "internal blockade" by the Cuban government.
What has been Carlos Lazo's change in stance regarding the Cuban government?
Carlos Lazo, who was previously seen as an ally of the Cuban government due to his support for lifting the U.S. embargo, has changed his stance and is now criticizing the regime for the restrictions imposed on his humanitarian project. This shift in his narrative reflects his dissatisfaction with the internal obstacles of Miguel Díaz-Canel's government.
How has the Cuban government reacted to Carlos Lazo's criticisms?
The Cuban government has not provided clear responses to the allegations made by Carlos Lazo, and according to the activist, institutions and officials have offered evasive replies. Lazo claims that his activists have faced dismissive attitudes and verbal mistreatment, indicating a lack of willingness from the regime to collaborate with his project.
What impact does the U.S. embargo have on the humanitarian situation in Cuba?
The Cuban regime claims that the United States embargo is responsible for the shortage of essential goods on the island. However, the U.S. government has reiterated that the embargo allows for the export of food and medical products to Cuba. The situation is further complicated by the regime's own internal restrictions, which hinder an efficient distribution of humanitarian aid.
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