Guatemala to Gradually End Cuban Medical Program Amid U.S. Pressure

Guatemala has announced plans to phase out its health cooperation agreement with Cuba by 2026, which currently employs 412 Cuban medical personnel, including 333 doctors. This decision, communicated by the Guatemalan Ministry of Public Health, aims to strengthen local medical staffing and enhance the public health system while ensuring service continuity during the transition. The announcement follows a recent trade agreement with the United States and reflects increasing U.S. pressure on countries to reassess their ties with Cuba. The Cuban medical export program, which generates significant revenue for the island, is facing scrutiny from Washington, which has labeled it as exploitation and forced labor.

Key Details: • Gradual phase-out of Cuban medical personnel by 2026. • Current Cuban medical staff includes 412 members, primarily in primary care and hospitals. • The decision aligns with a recent trade agreement signed with the U.S. • U.S. has intensified pressure on nations to cut ties with Cuba.