Cuba-US Tensions: Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced a hostile Senate hearing as activists demanded “Let Cuba Live” and lawmakers pressed him on Cuba’s alleged ties to adversaries and terrorism, with Rubio repeating claims about intelligence sites and Cuba’s role in regional conflicts. GAESA Under Fire: Cuba defended the military-run conglomerate GAESA, arguing it’s not “opaque” and that it helps fund social needs amid a fresh U.S. pressure push. Tourism Fallout: More hotel operators are exiting Cuba ahead of sanctions tied to GAESA, with Archipelago ending Aston-brand operations and other chains previously reducing or leaving. Humanitarian Blockade: The UN says the U.S. blockade is blocking humanitarian aid shipments to Cuba, leaving thousands of tons of food and fuel supplies stuck and distribution severely constrained. Asylum Path in Region: Costa Rica announced a regularization program allowing thousands of Cuban asylum applicants with pending or rejected cases to apply for temporary status and work legally. Rights in Cuba: A Cuban teen detained after protests in Morón says he was beaten and threatened with solitary confinement, while families report lack of direct health information for another minor in prison. Health & Daily Strain: Dengue prevention measures were discussed in Guantánamo, as Cuba’s energy crisis continues to disrupt services like education and basic supplies.