In response to the impact of tropical cyclone Oscar in the east of Cuba late October, the European Union has released €600,000 in humanitarian aid to help the most affected populations. The new funding will bring assistance to people displaced by the flooding, focusing on food assistance, shelter, healthcare and hygiene and sanitation.
Furthermore, a new EU Humanitarian Air Bridge has been organised from Panama to Santiago de Cuba. A total of 5 flights are bringing more than 100 tonnes of basic supplies, such as shelter, water, hygiene and sanitation items. Part of the cargo consisted of donations from the EU-owned stocks located in Panama.
Tropical cyclone Oscar caused heavy flooding that severely damaged infrastructures and displaced thousands of people. The situation was further complicated by issues experienced by the national electricity system.
In 2024, the European Union had already released €500,000 to support the provision of healthcare in the country, with particular attention to vulnerable children, and pregnant women. Earlier in April, the EU had also allocated €200,000 following severe floods in the west and centre of the country.
