By Megan Janetsky
Updated 4:33 PM EDT, March 25, 2026
MEXICO CITY (AP) — In a significant political stance, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Wednesday that her administration would uphold the agreement allowing Cuban doctors to work in Mexico. This commitment comes at a time when several other countries in the region have suspended their agreements with Cuba under increasing pressure from the U.S. government, particularly the Trump administration.
During her morning press briefing, Sheinbaum underscored the importance of the Cuban medical program for Mexico, stating, "It's a bilateral agreement that helps Mexico a lot." This stance opposes ongoing efforts by the U.S. to sever Cuba’s medical ties across Latin America and the Caribbean, which U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has likened to “a form of human trafficking.”
U.S. Pressure Mounts
The Trump administration has taken measures to isolate Cuba by effectively cutting off oil supplies to the island and pressuring its allies to withdraw support from its medical missions abroad. In response to these restrictions, political leaders in various countries, including Jamaica and Guyana, have hastily terminated their agreements with Cuban officials, sending home doctors who have provided crucial healthcare to underserved populations.
In light of this, the U.S. government reiterated its commitment to holding accountable those who are perceived to be facilitating Cuba's so-called "forced labor scheme." At a press conference, a White House spokesperson referred to statements from Rubio, highlighting the administration's efforts to promote “accountability” for those supporting Cuba's medical diplomacy.
Contrasting Perspectives
As neighboring countries abandon their partnerships with Cuba, Sheinbaum defended the contributions made by Cuban doctors during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and their ongoing work in Mexico's rural regions, where Mexican specialists are scarce. “It's hard to get Mexican doctors and specialists to go out to many rural areas where we need medical specialists, and the Cubans are willing to work there,” Sheinbaum remarked.
While Mexico had historically provided oil shipments to aid Cuba in overcoming energy crises, the Sheinbaum administration suspended these shipments under the threat of U.S. tariffs, instead redirecting aid to the island nation.
Historical Context
Mexico’s long-standing relationship with Cuba dates back to the latter’s revolution and has included continued support despite political and economic pressures. This year, as Sheinbaum's administration navigates the complexities of international relations, the commitment to Cuban healthcare workers reflects a broader trend of solidarity against U.S. interventionist policies in the region.
Conclusion
As tensions continue to rise between the U.S. administration and Cuba, President Sheinbaum's declaration marks a defiant stance within the region. Upholding the agreement with Cuban doctors exemplifies Mexico's commitment to health equity and showcases the nuanced diplomacy that the current administration seeks to maintain despite external threats.
For further insights regarding Cuba's medical diplomacy and the implications of international partnerships, consider the comprehensive reports by the Associated Press on Cuban medical missions.
— Associated Press journalist Seung Min Kim contributed to this report from Washington, D.C.
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