Vehicle Rules Update: Cuba’s new regulations for buying, selling, importing, assembling, and transferring vehicles are now in effect, including one-time direct import options for individuals for certain electric cars/rural vehicles and tax/tariff exemptions if paired with renewable-powered charging. Energy & Renewables: Cuba continues expanding solar capacity, with new solar charging stations and the Los Cocos photovoltaic park in Holguín’s Baguanos feeding the grid while batteries help stabilize output amid fluctuations. Power Crisis Reality Check: Reports describe worsening blackouts and fuel shortages across Havana and beyond, with daily life disrupted and families struggling to secure basic food and services. Private Sector Crackdown: In Sancti Spíritus, inspectors issued 200+ fines and closed private businesses over pricing and electronic payment compliance, sparking backlash over a “witch hunt” approach. Cost-of-Living & Policy Critique: Economist Pedro Monreal says price policy failures amount to “legal looting,” pointing to contradictions between national deregulation plans and renewed local controls. Diplomacy & Sanctions Pressure: Cuba rejects U.S. human-trafficking accusations as slander, while the CIA reportedly sets up a Cuba-focused task force to monitor and pressure Havana. Fidel Centenary & Politics: Multiple items mark Fidel Castro’s 100th birthday, including international events and local youth activities in Holguín/Birán, underscoring how the centenary is being used alongside ongoing economic strain.