Spanish Traveler's Critique of Cuba Sparks Heated Online Reactions

A video by a Spanish content creator who spent two weeks in Cuba has ignited a wave of responses on TikTok, with users from various countries challenging the Cuban regime's official narrative, particularly the overused claim of the U.S. "blockade" as the primary cause of the island's crisis. "The blockade excuse is worn out," commented one user reacting to the testimony shared by @_sotorene, a young Spaniard who identifies as "left-wing" and participated in a non-governmental organization’s efforts to rehabilitate children’s homes during his stay.

"I've spent 15 days in Cuba, and as a Spaniard with leftist views, I'm going to give you my honest opinion," begins the viral video on the social media platform, where he recounts his journey through cities like Santiago, Bayamo, Camagüey, Trinidad, and Havana. Throughout the trip, the creator describes experiencing shortages, blackouts, and water scarcity, while engaging with both authorities and locals. "People aren't living; they're surviving, as the average salary isn't enough for a decent life," he states in one part of the video.

"I witnessed extreme poverty and dire need," he asserts in the clip, which has surpassed 10,000 likes, while painting a picture where "people begged and followed you on the streets hoping for anything you could give." He also highlights a disconnect among the youth with Cuba’s official history: "Many young Cubans are disconnected from the Cuban revolution and desire change."

Political System Under Scrutiny

Reflecting on Cuba's current political framework, he comments: "It's a system that infringes on rights and freedoms, dominated by a single party that prevents genuine political opposition." He further adds, "For me, the socialism of the future must embrace democracy, political pluralism, and freedom."

In his account, @_sotorene also touches on the U.S. embargo: "Cuba has been enduring the U.S. economic blockade for decades, which significantly impacts the Cuban economy," though he tempers this by highlighting the presence of "rampant and wild capitalism in the streets," where Cuban pesos, euros, and dollars all circulate.

Diverse Online Reactions

The video also includes stark contrasts between tourist areas and impoverished neighborhoods. "No water or electricity during my first days in Santiago," he recounts about the initial period of his visit. In one of the most shared segments, he declares, "The Cuban revolution is now just a myth post the Soviet Union's collapse." This sentiment resonates with users who agree that Cuba’s current situation stems from the Communist Party's economic model, beyond any external sanctions.

Social media reactions came swiftly, highlighting the critical tone that dominates discussions about the Cuban situation. "It’s not the blockade, it’s communism," wrote one user. Another added, "Cuban socialism only enriches a few while the people go hungry." Many expressed gratitude for the testimony. "Thank you for speaking the truth, even as a leftist. It's time to open our eyes," said one. Another pointed out, "We've been saying this for years, but when a foreigner says it, it goes viral."

Some focused on debunking the embargo argument: "And there are still those who believe it's the embargo's fault?" or "Cuba isn't blocked; it's held hostage by the Communist Party." Others noted the quickness with which the crisis is apparent: "You don't need 15 days to realize this doesn't work, just 15 minutes."

Reality vs. Official Narrative

The contrast between the official narrative and reality was also noted: "The more videos like this that come out, the less they can keep lying," wrote one user. Another commented, "The government has money for hotels and tourism, but not for the people." Several emphasized the human drama in the story: "What hurts the most is seeing children begging for food in the streets."

"This isn't propaganda. This is humanity," wrote one of the most shared users. "The Cuban system is the real blockade," summarized another, while yet another concluded: "It’s not the embargo, it’s the dictatorship masquerading as a revolution."

This testimony joins other recent videos from foreigners who have criticized the island’s situation from a critical perspective. In March, Spanish user @juditgm96 faced backlash after discussing the "blockade," and in July, Argentine @melimoriatisfit highlighted the contrast between tourist Cuba and the street reality. Additionally, TikTok features posts from @topeadosdeviaje, who reported on the transport collapse and widespread precarity, as well as @adventureelliotofficial, who documented rationing and food shortages.

While each offers their own perspective, they all agree in portraying an island where dignity persists amidst blackouts, food shortages, and a lack of freedom.