Miguel Díaz-Canel has once again emphasized the defense of the socialist model as a top priority for Cuba, insisting that the Revolution and the achievements of socialism must be "preserved." He presented Fidel Castro's ideology as the key to navigating the challenging circumstances the nation currently faces.
In a series of posts on X this Wednesday, Díaz-Canel highlighted three "non-negotiable" principles learned from Fidel Castro: "the country's independence, the Revolution, and the values and achievements that socialism embodies."
These principles are closely linked to the economic reforms his administration is promoting. "With this in mind, we are undertaking a challenging process of Economic and Social Transformations, prioritizing the welfare of the people and the social justice that Fidel staunchly defended," he stated.
Díaz-Canel reiterated that these economic changes do not mean abandoning the current political and economic model, but rather preserving it.
In his initial messages, Díaz-Canel also placed the blame on the United States for the hardships faced by the Cuban people, using some of the harshest language seen in his recent speeches.
"As the fascist U.S. regime intensifies its genocide against our people, blocking every avenue for improving well-being and quality of life, Fidel remains the key to finding a way out, no matter how difficult the circumstances," he declared.
This statement aligns with the stance he has maintained in recent weeks, characterized by an explicit defense of socialism, a growing glorification of Fidel Castro, and increasingly severe accusations against Washington.
At the end of July, Díaz-Canel labeled the U.S. government as a "neofascist regime," clarifying that Cuban economic reforms are not aimed at moving towards capitalism. "The changes we are implementing today are not for more capitalism, but to defend and advance in socialist construction," he stated at that time.
The verbal confrontation intensified in August when Díaz-Canel accused the United States of issuing an "open threat of genocidal extermination" against Cuba following comments by Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding Washington's pressure policy towards Havana.
Meanwhile, Fidel Castro has become a constant reference in Díaz-Canel's speeches on how to tackle the current crisis. He presented the late leader's thinking as a guide for overcoming present challenges, asserting that "Fidel's thought is the most accurate compass for navigating the storm facing the Cuban people."
The exaltation continued during celebrations marking the centenary of Castro's birth. On August 13, Díaz-Canel urged viewing the world's current problems through Fidel's "legacy," stating that many issues Castro addressed decades ago remain unresolved.
Following this, he asserted that Fidel "is back" in a way that should "terrify" his adversaries. In that same speech, Díaz-Canel reiterated the "non-negotiable principles" of independence, the Revolution, and "the values and achievements socialism represents," a message he has continued to promote on X.
Understanding Díaz-Canel's Position on Socialism and U.S. Relations
What are the key principles Díaz-Canel insists on preserving?
Díaz-Canel emphasizes the importance of preserving the country's independence, the Revolution, and the values and achievements that socialism represents.
How does Díaz-Canel view the relationship with the United States?
Díaz-Canel places blame on the United States for the difficulties faced by the Cuban people, using strong language to describe the actions of the U.S. as genocidal and obstructive to Cuba's welfare.
How is Fidel Castro's ideology being used in Díaz-Canel's rhetoric?
Díaz-Canel frequently references Fidel Castro's ideology as a guiding force for overcoming Cuba's current challenges, portraying Castro's thoughts as essential for navigating the nation's difficulties.