U.S.-Cuba Policy Shift: The Trump administration’s Cuba strategy is moving away from military options and toward tighter sanctions aimed at cutting off regime revenue, echoing its economic squeeze approach used against Iran. Dominican Republic Fallout: Dominican authorities expelled nine Cuban diplomats, and Cuban officials downplayed the move while critics and grassroots groups called protests, as Dominican sources allege intelligence-linked activity tied to Havana. Food and Finance Pressure: Cuba’s foreign minister again denounced “maximum pressure,” while reports highlight how banking and payment rules collide with everyday commerce—leaving small businesses stuck with unusable balances. Everyday Crisis on the Island: Havana residents in Luyanó reported waking up without water, electricity, phone, or TV, and a transformer fire in Calabazar, Boyeros left neighbors frustrated with delays in repairs. Energy and Prices: Holguín officials moved to cap profits and regulate key staples as costs rise, while viral “what $15 buys” videos show how thin purchasing power has become. Regional Signals: BRICS leaders discussed linking instant payments and digital currencies, and China delivered another 15,000 tons of rice to Cuba amid the food crunch.