A young man fulfilling his Active Military Service (AMS) in Cuba has reported that his unit has been placed on "combat readiness" following events related to Venezuela.
This information comes from a message shared by reporter Yosmany Mayeta Labrada on Saturday, indicating that these young conscripts have been mobilized within Unit 1573 of the Air Defense Military in Santiago de Cuba.
"Yosmany, I'm informing you that due to the situation with Venezuela, the Air Defense Military Unit 1573 has us on combat readiness," reads the message attributed to the young serviceman.
The report does not provide further details on the specific measures taken or any official statements, focusing solely on the account disseminated by the journalist.
In comments accompanying the publication, several internet users expressed anxiety over family members potentially stationed at that unit. One user mentioned her twin brothers are part of the unit, adding that their mother is extremely anxious.
Another commented on the widespread unease: "We're all on edge, desperate, praying for our children."
Additional messages referenced the unit's location and possible signs of military activation. One comment identified the facility as "the unit on the old road to El Cobre," while another claimed to have seen a helicopter heading towards Holguín.
"The combat alarm has already been sounded," noted an internet user who witnessed helicopters flying overhead.
A mother voiced her concern: "My son is there, and I can't bear the thought of anything happening. I'm heading there tomorrow."
The distress among mothers is exacerbated by the tragic incidents related to military service in Cuba that have shocked public opinion. In December, the father of a deceased young man shared a gallery of images showing recruits who had died or suffered severe consequences, criticizing the state's impunity and silence.
According to his account, at least 78 teenagers have lost their lives since 2019 under circumstances involving accidents, medical negligence, or suicides within military units.
The atmosphere of militarization and indoctrination was further highlighted in early December when authorities in Santiago de Cuba mobilized children and teenagers to participate in political events honoring Fidel Castro, presented as patriotic tributes.
Images of uniformed minors carrying portraits of the late leader reignited criticism concerning the use of children in ideological ceremonies and the manipulation of youth for propagandistic purposes.
These incidents, occurring within a short period, underscore growing social and familial discontent with the military's role in civilian life and the government's lack of transparency.
Reports of deaths, abuse, and political exploitation of the youth heighten distrust toward military institutions, revealing a tense climate impacting both military quarters and Cuban homes.
Key Questions about Cuban Military Concerns
What prompted the Cuban military unit to be placed on combat readiness?
The unit was put on combat readiness due to events related to Venezuela, as reported by a young conscript.
How have families reacted to the military's actions?
Families have expressed significant distress, with many concerned about the safety of their loved ones stationed at the military unit.
What broader issues does this situation highlight?
This situation underscores the growing discontent with the military's role in civilian life, the lack of transparency from the government, and the manipulation of youth for political purposes.