Two U.S. lawmakers, Representatives Pramila Jayapal and Jonathan Jackson, wrapped up a five-day Cuba visit where they condemned the U.S. embargo as causing humanitarian harm and urged a permanent, negotiated solution to bilateral tensions.

They highlighted Cuba’s ongoing fuel shortages, blackouts, and disruptions to healthcare and transportation, noting a second Russian oil delivery was promised but with timing unclear.

The delegation observed signs of liberalization, including allowances for Cuban American private investment and the release of more than 2,000 prisoners, signaling potential reform momentum.

On the ground impacts were stark: premature babies in incubators at risk due to power outages, halted school attendance, and widespread business closures.

They described a humanitarian crisis linked to the embargo, citing electricity shortages, halted medical treatments, water shortages, and reduced food production observed during the visit.

Healthcare facilities in Havana, including oncology and maternity wards, were highlighted as deteriorating, illustrating the embargo’s toll.

The visit included conversations with families, religious leaders, civil society, government officials, ambassadors, humanitarian groups, and dissidents to assess conditions firsthand.

Participants noted ongoing high-level talks between the U.S. and Cuba, though no negotiation details were released.

They urged a more diplomatic U.S. policy toward Cuba, warning that hardline approaches could shift migration pressures toward the United States.

The trip signaled bipartisan momentum in Congress to reevaluate Cuba policy in light of humanitarian impacts and energy disruptions.

The embargo’s role in worsening Cuba’s electricity crisis and power outages was underscored, with sight of a maternity ward illustrating the human impact.

The lawmakers pressed for end to the blockade and real negotiations, arguing policy change would benefit both nations and reflect American values.