Havana – On Saturday night, Cuban state television broadcast more than ten minutes of footage showing former President Raúl Castro, now 95, attending a military ceremony. Castro wore his traditional olive‑green uniform and was accompanied by his bodyguard and grandson, Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro.
Event highlights
The ceremony honored the 65th anniversary of the Personal Security Directorate, the army branch tasked with protecting Cuba’s top leaders. High‑ranking military officials stood alongside Castro as he took a seat in the front row of an indoor venue, received a commemorative certificate, and greeted attendees on several occasions.
Family presence and diplomatic context
Castro’s grandson, who appeared with him, had earlier this year taken part in talks with the United States. Those talks, aimed at easing the U.S. oil and financial blockade imposed in January, have since stalled, and sanctions have intensified in recent months. Both governments acknowledge that the discussions occurred, but no agenda or details have been released.
Health rumors and legal developments
Rumors about Castro’s health have circulated since his first absence in decades from a July rally commemorating the Cuban Revolution’s biggest celebration. In June, the U.S. Department of Justice filed murder charges against the veteran leader for the 1996 downing of a light aircraft belonging to an anti‑Castro organization, an incident tied to a broader campaign to pressure the island’s political system.
President Díaz‑Canel’s remarks
President Miguel Díaz‑Canel posted on X, praising Castro’s participation and noting the historic roots of the Personal Security Directorate dating back to the revolutionary struggle led by Fidel Castro. Díaz‑Canel shared several photos from the event, showing him alongside the former leader.
Impact of the U.S. blockade
The ongoing U.S. energy blockade has deepened a five‑year crisis on the island, contributing to prolonged blackouts lasting over 30 hours and straining the Cuban economy and population. While the blockade remains a point of contention, the appearance of Raúl Castro underscores the continuity of the revolutionary leadership’s public presence despite external pressures.
As Cuba navigates both internal health concerns for its elder statesmen and external diplomatic challenges, the event serves as a reminder of the enduring symbolism of the Castro family in the nation’s political landscape.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
