The Trump administration has escalated its efforts to pressure countries into ending agreements with Cuba that allow Cuban doctors to work abroad, particularly in the Caribbean. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have warned nations that they could face visa restrictions if they continue such arrangements, accusing the Cuban government of exploiting its medical personnel through forced labor and human trafficking.

In response, Caribbean leaders, including those from Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, have strongly defended the Cuban medical missions. They emphasize that these doctors are essential to their healthcare systems, especially in underserved areas, and reject the U.S. accusations of exploitation. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, for example, praised Cuban doctors for their significant contributions to Jamaica’s healthcare, noting that they have been “incredibly helpful” to the country.

U.S. officials have engaged in diplomatic talks with Caribbean nations, trying to convince them to discontinue agreements with Cuba. The discussions are centered on allegations of labor abuse, with the U.S. hoping to curb what it views as Cuba’s “medical diplomacy” — a program that brings in revenue to the Cuban government.

Cuba has condemned the U.S. stance, calling the efforts an attack on its economy and sovereignty. The Cuban government argues that the medical missions are in line with international labor standards and provide much-needed services to populations that might otherwise lack access to healthcare.

This dispute has highlighted the ongoing tension between U.S. foreign policy and the healthcare needs of Caribbean nations. Cuban doctors have played a critical role in the region’s health infrastructure, and their future involvement in these countries remains uncertain as the U.S. continues to pressure nations to sever ties with Cuba’s medical programs.