As millions of Cubans grapple with power outages, shortages, and rampant inflation, Miguel Díaz-Canel and his wife, Lis Cuesta, savored a sumptuous banquet at the Kremlin this Thursday, courtesy of Vladimir Putin, during the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. The dining table was graced with venison medallions, halibut fillet, select wines, and even a mousse cake adorned with golden berries, as reported by Russian media.
Putin raised a toast to "peace and prosperity" while the attending leaders, including the Cuban dictator, enthusiastically clinked their glasses. Lis Cuesta was seen beaming during the dinner, donned in what appeared to be a fur coat or a sophisticated imitation, embodying the "creative resistance" that is now so fervently advocated from Moscow.
The Stark Contrast Between Cuban Reality and Elite Extravagance
This lavish display occurs while, in the island Díaz-Canel claims to "represent," Cubans endure extreme bread rationing in provinces like Guantánamo, where only children under 13 are guaranteed a loaf. Breakfast has become a symbolic act in many households. For those opting to cook, creativity is a must, as the government in Sancti Spíritus has acknowledged a liquefied gas shortage, yet offers no solution or timeline for service restoration.
From Moscow's venison medallions to Guantánamo's bread rationing, the chasm between the elite and the Cuban populace can no longer be measured merely in kilometers, but in levels of cynicism. Yet, for the regime, these images are not scandalous; they are "diplomacy." And if it requires posing happily alongside a warring autocrat, toasting among leaders who face no elections, shortages, or blackouts, they do so with relish, dessert included.
Understanding the Disparity in Cuba
What challenges are ordinary Cubans facing?
Ordinary Cubans are struggling with severe power outages, scarcity of basic goods, and soaring inflation, leading to extreme measures like bread rationing and cooking fuel shortages.
How does the Cuban leadership's behavior contrast with the country's situation?
While the Cuban populace deals with daily hardships, the leadership indulges in opulent events abroad, highlighting a significant disconnect from the struggles of ordinary citizens.
What was the occasion for Díaz-Canel's visit to Moscow?
Díaz-Canel's visit to Moscow was for the Victory Day celebrations, where he attended a lavish banquet hosted by Vladimir Putin.