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Miguel Díaz-Canel Returns to Cuba Amidst Widespread Criticism from Citizens

Tuesday, July 8, 2025 by Isabella Rojas

Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel announced his return to Cuba on Tuesday after attending the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil. The announcement quickly sparked a wave of critical reactions from many Cubans on social media. "We are back in the homeland," Díaz-Canel briefly stated on his official X account, prompting a flood of memes, biting comments, and sarcastic remarks.

One user commented, "Couldn't you stay there? What a pity," while another bluntly wrote, "What a disgrace." A further comment read, "Nobody misses you." In contrast, some messages welcomed the president with official slogans and hashtags like #CubaWillPrevail.

Seeking Support at the BRICS Summit

The trip to Brazil was aimed at participating in the BRICS meetings (including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), where Cuba seeks to position itself as a partner country without formal membership. Díaz-Canel was accompanied by high-ranking officials, including Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez.

A Call for a New International Order

During the summit, Díaz-Canel attempted to present an image of "South-South cooperation" and defended Cuba's involvement in international medical brigades, condemning what he described as "shameful persecution by the United States." However, his speech underscored an urgent need for economic and political support amid one of the most severe crises facing the nation.

In his official address, Díaz-Canel urged the BRICS nations to promote a new international order and lauded Cuba's role as a "solidarity nation," despite rising accusations of labor exploitation conditions imposed on medical brigade professionals.

Desperate Measures in Uncertain Times

Many analysts viewed Cuba's participation in the summit as a desperate attempt to secure financing without committing to political or economic reforms. The nation approaches these forums with a collapsed economy, lacking productive capacity, and with millions of citizens enduring shortages, inflation, power outages, and record levels of emigration.

Understanding the Impact of Díaz-Canel's Return to Cuba

Why did Díaz-Canel attend the BRICS Summit?

Díaz-Canel attended the BRICS Summit to position Cuba as a partner country and seek economic and political support amidst the nation's ongoing crisis.

What was the public reaction to Díaz-Canel's return to Cuba?

The reaction was largely critical, with many Cubans expressing negative sentiments on social media, although some messages showed support with official slogans.

What challenges is Cuba currently facing?

Cuba is dealing with a collapsed economy, shortages, inflation, power outages, and a record number of citizens emigrating from the country.

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