The U.S. Embassy in Havana has announced that it will only offer emergency services to American citizens on Friday, January 16, in response to access restrictions implemented by the Cuban government due to an official event.
According to a statement from the embassy, the Cuban regime has organized an event in the plaza in front of the Embassy, hindering normal access to the building.
Additionally, streets surrounding the Embassy will be closed to vehicular traffic.
As a result, regular consular services, such as visa processing and general public assistance, will be temporarily suspended.
This official activity takes place as part of a series of tributes and mass events honoring Cuban military personnel who died in Venezuela, leading to street closures and security measures that complicate mobility for employees and visitors to the U.S. mission.
The Embassy outlined that the traffic restrictions and police presence aim to ensure safety due to the crowd and security forces, making it impossible to provide consular services under normal conditions.
Emergency Recommendations and Guidance
In light of this situation, the Embassy has issued several recommendations for its citizens in Cuba:
- Avoid crowds and the event area.
- Be prepared for increased police presence and possible traffic diversions or interruptions.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and follow updates through local media.
The diplomatic mission also reminded American citizens that outside regular hours, they can contact the Embassy for emergencies at +(53) (7) 839-4100 (pressing 1 and then 0) or via email at acshavana@state.gov.
The office also encouraged enrollment in the U.S. State Department's security alert program (STEP) and subscription to its WhatsApp channel "Consular Information for U.S. Citizens" to receive security updates and notices about service changes.
Background of the Service Suspension
The halt in services occurs amidst a series of official acts organized by the Cuban government to honor 32 Cuban military personnel killed in Venezuela during an operation to capture dictator Nicolás Maduro on January 3.
The remains of the officers were repatriated to Havana this Thursday.
Further commemorations are scheduled for Friday, including a gathering at the José Martí Anti-Imperialist Platform on the Malecón and simultaneous events in all provincial cities, followed by the burial of the bodies in Defense Fallen pantheons in their respective localities.
The tribute activities have involved extensive road closures and access restrictions in the capital since early Thursday morning, according to announcements from the Provincial Road Safety Commission of Havana.
The use of public spaces near the U.S. Embassy for such official events is not new and has previously caused traffic disruptions, increased police presence, and operational adjustments by diplomatic missions stationed on the Island.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Embassy Services in Cuba
Why is the U.S. Embassy in Cuba suspending services on January 16?
The suspension is due to access restrictions and street closures around the Embassy implemented by the Cuban government for an official event.
What services will the U.S. Embassy provide during the event?
The Embassy will only provide emergency services to American citizens during the event.
How can U.S. citizens contact the Embassy in case of an emergency?
In case of an emergency, U.S. citizens can contact the Embassy at +(53) (7) 839-4100 or via email at acshavana@state.gov.
What precautions should U.S. citizens in Cuba take during this time?
Citizens should avoid the event area, be prepared for increased police presence and traffic changes, and stay informed through local media.