Two Cuba-bound aid ships missing after leaving Mexico

March 27, 2026

Two sailboats carrying humanitarian aid and at least nine crew members from Poland, France, Cuba, and the United States have gone missing while traveling from Mexico's Isla Mujeres to Cuba after departing on March 20th. The vessels, named Friendship and Tigger Moth, failed to arrive in Havana as expected on Tuesday or Wednesday, prompting Mexico to deploy naval teams and military aircraft for search and rescue operations. This incident occurs amid Cuba's severe humanitarian crisis following President Trump's fuel embargo that began in January, which has caused widespread electricity shortages and led to the cancellation of over 50,000 surgeries.

Who is affected

At least nine crew members from Poland, France, Cuba, and the United States aboard the two missing vessels
The captains and crews of the Friendship and Tigger Moth sailboats
Cuban citizens awaiting humanitarian supplies
Mexican naval teams and military personnel conducting the search
Maritime rescue coordination centers from Poland, France, Cuba, and the United States
Diplomatic representatives from the four countries

What action is being taken

Mexico has deployed naval teams and military search aircraft to locate the vessels
The Mexican navy is using all resources at its disposal to find the boats and ensure crew safety
Mexico has established contact with maritime rescue coordination centres from Poland, France, Cuba, and the United States along with their diplomatic representatives
Cuba is conducting search and rescue efforts
The convoy's organizers are cooperating fully with authorities

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangerous conditions volunteers face while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Cuba during a severe crisis caused by U.S. sanctions. The missing vessels represent critical supplies needed by Cubans suffering from dire shortages, including cancelled surgeries and nationwide blackouts. The situation underscores Cuba's dependence on humanitarian shipments from volunteers and NGOs since Trump's fuel embargo began, especially after losing Venezuelan oil support. The search operation also demonstrates international cooperation amid heightened U.S.-Cuba tensions, with Trump recently suggesting a "friendly takeover" of the island nation.

What's next

Early stages of U.S.-Cuba negotiations have begun, though their progress is unclear

Read full article from source: BBC