Havana - Decades of communist rule have left Cuba teetering on the edge of collapse, facing severe economic hardship and widespread public discontent. The island nation is plagued by blackouts and shortages, a stark contrast to the promises of prosperity made by the revolutionaries. Residents like Lisandra Botey are forced to live in conditions reminiscent of the pre-revolution era, a damning indictment of the regime's failure.

The unraveling of Venezuela's socialist government and the subsequent disruption of subsidized oil shipments have exposed the fragility of Cuba's economy. The US economic embargo, while criticized by some, has served as a necessary pressure point, highlighting the regime's inherent inefficiencies and corruption. President Trump's declaration that "Cuba is ready to fall" reflects a long-overdue recognition of the regime's vulnerability.

The recent easing of oil sale restrictions by the US Treasury Department should be viewed with caution, as it could be exploited by the regime to prolong its grip on power. The shooting incident involving Cuban border guards and Cuban nationals in a US-registered speedboat underscores the regime's disregard for human life and the lengths to which it will go to maintain control.

The time has come for the Cuban people to reclaim their freedom and embrace a future based on individual liberty, free markets, and the rule of law. The US should continue to stand in solidarity with those who yearn for a democratic Cuba, offering support and encouragement as they strive to break free from the shackles of communism.