Having closely followed the situation regarding humanitarian aid in Cuba, I can share some personal observations that add context to these disturbing revelations. It appears that despite shipments of aid arriving at Cuban ports—such as the recent donations from Mexico—there is a significant disconnect between the receipt of goods and their distribution to ordinary citizens. Locals have reported that essential items like the “Frijol del Bienestar,” a government-donated black bean usually given for free, are instead found sold at exorbitant prices in stores operated by military-linked entities such as TRD and CIMEX. This practice places vital food staples beyond the reach of many Cubans due to the severe currency devaluation and economic hardships on the island. What struck me during conversations with residents from Matanzas province was the sudden restocking of these stores with Mexican-branded lentils, beans, and even hygiene products, shortly after aid shipments arrived. The stores, which were previously empty, now display these donated products exclusively sold for U.S. dollars, highlighting a lucrative market benefiting the regime rather than the vulnerable population. Moreover, attempts by local journalists and residents to document or report this diversion face surveillance and intimidation, suggesting an institutional effort to keep this practice under wraps. This raises critical questions about transparency and the fate of international aid meant to alleviate suffering. From my experience, genuine humanitarian aid should reach the hands of those in need without interference or commercial exploitation. The situation in Cuba demonstrates the challenges humanitarian organizations and donor countries face in ensuring aid effectiveness under authoritarian regimes. Understanding this, it becomes clear that international donors must consider mechanisms for monitoring aid distribution more rigorously and supporting independent verification to ensure assistance reaches the intended recipients. For concerned global citizens and human rights advocates, staying informed and raising awareness about these issues is vital to pressuring for accountability and change.