In recent days, the appearance and movement of military armored vehicles near civilian areas in Holguín and escorted convoys in Santiago de Cuba have raised public concern. This unease has been fueled by images shared on Saturday by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, which revealed these activities without any official explanation.
Photos posted on the journalist’s Facebook profile depict camouflaged armored transports manned by uniformed personnel, some operating from the top hatch. These vehicles were seen moving or parked in broad daylight in open spaces frequented by civilians in Holguín.
To date, there has been no statement from authorities regarding whether these maneuvers are part of military exercises, routine transfers, or a specific operation. This silence comes amid a backdrop of social tension, reports of forced recruitment, shooting drills, and recent tragedies linked to military activities.
The presence of heavy weaponry in urban settings has reignited public fear and reinforced the perception of increasing militarization at a time when the population is grappling with a severe economic crisis, food shortages, and persistent lack of basic services.
In a separate post, Mayeta highlighted the movement of seven escorted container trucks in Santiago de Cuba. Alongside the events in Holguín, this contributes to the perception of unusual military activities in the eastern part of the country.
Meanwhile, the provincial broadcaster Radio Angulo reported on the celebration of the National Defense Day in Holguín, emphasizing readiness to "defend the Homeland." According to the state media, over a hundred participants received training as part of the so-called "War of the entire people," which included exercises for command organs, reserve combatants, territorial militias, students, and civilians.
These developments occur within a wider context where the Cuban government has announced that Saturdays will be systematically dedicated to military, political, and ideological preparation through 2026. This announcement follows heightened tensions with the United States after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. military operation and Washington's hardening stance against Havana.
As the government continues to emphasize external threats and bolster its national defense narrative, questions linger about the impact of this weekly military preparation on Cubans' work, education, and daily life, amid prolonged blackouts, fuel, food, and medicine shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Military Activities in Cuba
Why are military vehicles present in civilian areas in Holguín?
The presence of military vehicles in civilian areas in Holguín has raised public concern due to the lack of official explanations, leaving residents questioning whether these are routine transfers, part of military exercises, or specific operations.
What is the National Defense Day in Holguín?
The National Defense Day in Holguín is an event promoted by the Cuban government to prepare citizens for defense under the theme of being "ready to defend the Homeland." It involves training for various segments of the population, including military and civilians.
How is the Cuban government's military preparation impacting daily life?
The weekly military preparation announced by the Cuban government is expected to impact daily life by potentially disrupting work and educational routines, amid ongoing challenges like power outages and shortages of essential goods.