Chronicle on Cuba - August 2008

Domestic Affairs: First tropical storm Fay and then hurricane Gustav inflict severe damages to the island. Former officials of Cuba's government issue a document calling for a "democratic and participative" socialism. In Beijing Olympics, Cuba steps down as the Latin America regional leader. Protests erupt as a Cuban dissident punk rock musician is arrested on charges of ''pre-crime social dangerousness''.

Economy: Russia and Cuba are to make efforts to boost bilateral cooperation in all spheres. Cuban creditors and suppliers are worried about Cuba’s new cash crisis. Vietnam and Cuba sign important cooperation agreements.

Foreign Affairs: Prime Minister Vladimir Putin says it is time for Russia to rebuild links with Cuba. Cuban defectors in Canada prompt an ire response from Fidel Castro. A Cuban delegation visits Angola. Cuban Vice Presidents participate in the swearing-in ceremonies of Paraguayan and Dominican presidents.  Cuban President Raul Castro meets with the Prime Minister of Barbados and South Africa’s Foreign Affairs Minister.

Security: Russian officials renew the idea of military cooperation with Cuba.

US-Cuba Relations: A veteran spy catcher adds fuel to the debate about the Cuban government's interest in spying in South Florida. Junior baseball teams from Cuba and the US play in the island. A federal judge decides against a controversial Florida state law that banned academic travel to Cuba.