Dark times for Cuba’s economic experiment

Cuba's current economic crisis, exacerbated by a recent U.S. oil embargo, is explored, highlighting the struggles of Cubans like Yasser, a bicycle business owner, and the broader implications for the island's economic future. The discussion traces Cuba's economic history, from its reliance on Soviet support to its brief flirtation with capitalism and subsequent dependence on Venezuelan oil. Economist Ricardo Torres provides insights into Cuba's shifting economic strategies, the impact of U.S. policy, and the growing inequality on the island. The narrative emphasizes the challenges Cuba faces in balancing its communist ideals with the need for economic reform and international engagement, especially given the U.S. embargo and its impact on tourism and essential resources.