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The overall deterioration of the situation in Cuba has prompted the Swiss Government to issue a strong travel warning to its citizens.
In an update published this Tuesday, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAE) advises against traveling to the Caribbean island due to a crisis affecting everything from access to basic services to personal safety.
The official communication, effective from February 11, 2026, describes a critical situation: "The shortage of fuel and electricity is severely disrupting daily life."
The DFAE emphasizes that power outages are common and can last "several hours or even days," affecting even tourist facilities such as hotels.
A country in collapse: Without electricity, without fuel, without food
Among the most striking warnings is that related to the inability to guarantee essential services.
The Swiss authority warns that "there are also issues with the supply of food, especially essential items, medications, and medical equipment. Emergency services are not being provided."
Even phone connections and internet access can be completely interrupted for long periods.
The document emphasizes that only airlines are in a position to provide information about flights, and that it is crucial to consult them directly before traveling, as instability also affects airport operations.
Security and Protests: "The social situation is very tense"
Regarding the general situation in the country, the DFAE warns that special attention must be paid to personal safety.
"The social situation is very tense," the report notes, adding that demonstrations could lead to violent confrontations with security forces, as well as causing road blockades and delays.
"Avoid large gatherings and concentrations of any kind. Follow the instructions of local authorities," emphasizes the DFAE.
Rising Crime: Assaults, Drugs, and Dangerous Taxis
The report does not overlook the issue of crime, whose rate has noticeably increased.
“The overall security situation has deteriorated. In particular, there are increasing reports of pickpocketing, theft, and armed robbery, and drug-related crimes are on the rise,” warns the document.
Especially alarming is the warning about attacks on buses and carjackings, which are sometimes carried out with the complicity of the drivers themselves.
Private homes (very popular alternative accommodations in Cuba) are not without risk. The Swiss government recommends verifying that they are properly registered, indicated by the presence of a blue triangle on the door.
Collapsed mobility: only dollars and long lines
Transport on the Island is also facing a critical situation.
“The supply of fuel is not guaranteed. Fuel is only available at select gas stations and in limited quantities; be prepared for long wait times”, warns the document. Additionally, only U.S. dollars are accepted as a form of payment at many service stations.
This scarcity is compounded by the limited availability of train, bus, and taxi services, as well as the poor condition of roads and vehicles, which pose a serious accident risk, especially at night.
Collapsed healthcare system and alert for arbovirus
The Swiss warning also addresses the collapse of the Cuban healthcare system.
"Medical care is not guaranteed", he emphasizes.
The shortage of medications, including antibiotics and anesthetics, coupled with the lack of adequate infrastructure and transportation for patients, compels consideration of an immediate return to Switzerland even in cases of mild illnesses or minor injuries.
Additionally, it details that an epidemic of arboviruses has been reported, including dengue, chikungunya, zika, and oropouche, which further exacerbates the public health situation in the country.
For those needing to travel to Cuba for urgent reasons, the DFAE recommends bringing an adequate supply of personal medications and consulting international regulations regarding controlled substances prior to travel.
Warnings about freedom of expression and prison conditions
The Swiss government also warned that in Cuba, photographing uniformed individuals, military facilities, and public buildings is prohibited, and that the participation of foreigners in political activities is punishable by law.
In the event of detention, the conditions of imprisonment are precarious.
"They cannot be compared to those in Switzerland; the economic crisis has led to a decline in healthcare and food conditions in prisons," the report emphasizes.
The increasing number of international warnings highlights the systemic deterioration of Cuban society, which affects not only its citizens but also its main source of income: tourism.
The ill-advised visit to the Island by European and American governments will undoubtedly have a strong impact on an already weakened sector, while the perception of Cuba as an unsafe, unstable destination lacking minimum guarantees for travelers is amplified.
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