Patrick Oppmann

Patrick Oppmann, CNN's Havana bureau chief and a seasoned correspondent on Cuba, delves into the island's unprecedented crisis. He highlights the economic struggles leading to a mass exodus, with 20% of the population leaving in five years. The discussion covers the fragility of Cuba's private sector, the regime's reluctance to reform, and Raul Castro's ongoing influence. Oppmann also explores the challenges of U.S. foreign policy and the limited support from international allies like China and Russia, emphasizing the dire daily realities faced by Cubans amid rolling blackouts and inflation.

Patrick Oppmann, CNN’s Havana bureau chief, offers firsthand insights into the unprecedented protests sweeping Cuba as citizens demand change amidst power outages. Lillian Guerra, a Cuban history expert, provides context on the revolutionary hopes versus current disappointments. They discuss the vital role of social media in uniting voices of dissent and the evolving impact of technology on communication. The conversation also touches on the youth's entrepreneurial spirit and frustrations with the government, spotlighting a nation at a crossroads.