Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the Cuban leader, recently engaged in a shooting exercise alongside students from the University of Information Sciences (UCI), as part of the so-called Student Bastion activities. Shared images on social media platform X show students wielding Russian AK-47 rifles and throwing grenades, which Díaz-Canel claims bolster military readiness against "imperialism."
In defending this military exercise, Díaz-Canel invoked the legacy of Fidel Castro, stating, "As long as imperialism exists, the Party, the State, and the People will give utmost attention to defense services. It is an inviolable principle," reaffirming the Castro doctrine, which prioritizes militarization even within academic settings.
Controversy Surrounding Mandatory Military Service
The shooting practice at UCI comes amid growing opposition to compulsory military service in Cuba, especially after a tragic incident involving the death of nine teenagers due to ammunition mishandling. Initially attributed to the mishandling of old weaponry, this incident has sparked debates about safety conditions and the mandate involving youths as young as 16 in military service.
Impact of U.S. Policies on Cuba
This exercise coincides with Donald Trump's decision to reverse Cuba's removal from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move announced shortly after his inauguration, nullifying outgoing President Joe Biden's efforts to lift the designation. Díaz-Canel condemned this decision, labeling it an act of "arrogance" and an economic pressure tactic.
Expressing his views on social media, the Cuban leader accused Trump of perpetuating a "cruel economic war" that exacerbates the hardships faced by the Cuban population. He wrote, "President Trump, in an act of arrogance and disdain for the truth, has just reinstated the fraudulent designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. Not surprising. His aim is to continue strengthening the cruel economic war against Cuba for domination purposes."
Cuba's Military and Technological Strategy
UCI's involvement in military exercises has triggered mixed reactions, with critics pointing out the exploitation of youth for political and propaganda objectives. The fusion of military drills with technological training is perceived by some analysts as a strategy by the Cuban government to maintain strict control over younger generations amid escalating economic, social, and migration crises.
The strained relations between Cuba and the United States remain tense and are expected to worsen as Trump solidifies his power. The Cuban regime blames the United States for the nation's shortages, asserting that all the country's issues stem from the embargo and Washington's policies.
Understanding the Military and Political Context in Cuba
Why did Díaz-Canel participate in a military exercise with UCI students?
Díaz-Canel engaged in the exercise as part of the Student Bastion activities, aiming to enhance military preparedness against perceived imperialist threats, reinforcing the Castro doctrine of prioritizing defense.
What sparked the debate on mandatory military service in Cuba?
The debate intensified following an incident that resulted in the death of nine teenagers, initially blamed on the mishandling of old weaponry, raising concerns over safety and the involvement of young people in military service.
How has Donald Trump's policy affected Cuba?
Trump's decision to keep Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism has been criticized by Díaz-Canel as an act of economic pressure, worsening the economic conditions for the Cuban population.