In January 2026, with support from congressional Republicans, the Trump administration dramatically escalated political and economic pressure against Cuba. Trump claims, without evidence, that “the policies, practices and actions of the government of Cuba constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat” to U.S. national security and foreign policy. 

Tariffs have been increased on countries that directly or indirectly supply oil to the Cuban government, and tankers have been prevented from delivering much-needed fuel for homes, businesses and hospitals. The U.S. blockade — a suffocating tactic normally used only in declared warfare — also prohibits almost all travel, trade and financial transactions with Cuba, limiting the country’s access to desperately needed food, medicine and materials. The humanitarian situation in Cuba becomes more dire every day.
 
What does this have to do with Brunswick? More than 20 years ago, Brunswick chose Trinidad, Cuba, as its sister city. Two members of the Brunswick Town Council traveled to Cuba in 2003 to formalize that special relationship. Since then, Midcoast Maine has celebrated Cuba Week nearly every year (until the pandemic). Brunswick’s Wikipedia page highlights the sister city relationship, which is also commemorated by the “Dance of Two Cultures” mural at 11 Pleasant St. 

Isn’t it time for our political, business, and religious leaders — for all of us — to speak out against using hunger and economic ruin as political weapons against the citizens of Brunswick’s sister city and the rest of Cuba?

Nathaniel Wheelwright
Harpswell