Cuban journalist and author Luis Felipe Rojas has issued a warning that the Cuban regime, despite being in its final stages, could actually pose a greater threat due to its current vulnerable state.
“A wounded animal is more dangerous than a healthy one, and they are mortally wounded,” he remarked during an interview with Tania Costa for CiberCuba.
Historical Context: Lessons from ETA
To support his point, Rojas drew a historical parallel with the end of the Basque terrorist organization ETA in Spain. "I had the misfortune of witnessing ETA's demise in Spain, and when they were on the brink of extinction, they were at their most lethal. It was extremely dangerous," he noted.
Born in San Germán, Holguín, and residing in the United States since 2012, Rojas cautioned against underestimating the regime's repressive capabilities, reminding that the international community has previously turned a blind eye to brutal events in other nations.
Underestimating the Regime's Brutality
“Do not underestimate the cruelty of a regime like Cuba’s,” he emphasized, referencing the Tiananmen Square massacre, North Korean famines, African conflicts, and the missile crises as examples of atrocities that went largely unchallenged.
Regarding the possibility of political change, Rojas dismissed the likelihood of external intervention, suggesting instead that Cuba might implode from within.
Diplomatic Concerns and the Illusion of Dialogue
In this context, he analyzed recent statements by Miguel Díaz-Canel, who said in an RT interview that "utopia is on the horizon," a phrase borrowed from Uruguayan writer Eduardo Galeano, interpreted by many as an admission of no viable solution to the crisis.
Rojas responded with sarcasm: "On the horizon, what should be seen are the Delta Force for him to witness."
Beyond the irony, Rojas warned that current diplomatic engagements between Havana and Washington might be deceptive. “I think the regime in Havana might be baiting the United States,” he stated, recalling a historical pattern: “Every time there’s been an attempt at dialogue, it has been followed by betrayal.”
The Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies
Rojas’ warning comes amid an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Cuba: over 1,180 political prisoners, power outages exceeding 24 hours, and Food Monitor Program data indicating that 96.91% of Cubans have lost adequate access to food.
In May, the Cuban Conflict Observatory recorded 1,311 protests, the highest monthly figure of the year, hinting at growing social pressure from within—exactly the scenario Rojas sees as the only real path to change.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Political Tensions
Why is the Cuban regime considered more dangerous in its final stages?
According to Luis Felipe Rojas, a regime in its final stages is likened to a wounded animal, potentially more dangerous due to its vulnerability and desperation to maintain control.
What historical event does Rojas compare to the current situation in Cuba?
Rojas compares the current Cuban situation to the end of the Basque terrorist organization ETA in Spain, highlighting how its most dangerous period was right before its collapse.
What are the recent humanitarian challenges facing Cuba?
Cuba is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with over 1,180 political prisoners, extensive power outages, and a significant portion of the population lacking access to adequate food.