Cuban President Voices Concern Over Missing Aid Sailboats Bound for Havana
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has publicly expressed deep concern for two missing sailboats that were transporting nine individuals and humanitarian aid to Cuba. The vessels departed from Isla Mujeres in southern Mexico on March 20 and were expected to arrive in Havana between Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, but no communication or confirmation of their arrival has been received.
Search Efforts Intensify Amid Growing Crisis
The Mexican navy initiated search operations on Thursday night, alerting naval commands in Isla Mujeres and Yucalpetén, as well as search, rescue, and surveillance stations. Coordination has been established with maritime rescue centers in Poland, France, Cuba, and the United States, along with diplomatic representatives from the countries of origin of those on board. Search operations involve navy vessels and Persuader-type aircraft conducting maritime and aerial searches along the estimated route between Isla Mujeres and Havana, accounting for possible course changes, weather conditions, and ocean currents.
Humanitarian Context and Aid Shipments
The disappearance occurs as an increasing number of countries and aid organizations send shipments to Cuba, where a U.S. fuel blockade is causing crippling blackouts and pushing the Caribbean nation toward collapse. Díaz-Canel stated, "From our country, we are doing everything possible in the search and rescue of these brothers in struggle." The organization Nuestra América Convoy, involved in the aid effort, reported that based on vessel speed, the boats should arrive between Friday and Saturday and has made an open call for information or sightings.
Vessel Details and Safety Measures
The captains and crews are experienced sailors, and both vessels are equipped with appropriate safety systems and signalling equipment. Nuestra América Convoy expressed confidence in the crews' ability to reach Havana safely, stating, "We are cooperating fully with the authorities and remain confident in the crews’ ability to reach Havana safely." A first vessel from the convoy, carrying 14 tons of food and medicine, 73 solar panels, and about a dozen bicycles, successfully arrived in Havana on Tuesday.
