University lecturer and television host Marxlenin Pérez Valdés took to social media to assert that “before Chávez assumed the presidency, Cuba had already started to recover economically.” Her comments were a critique of an article/interview by OnCuba, which she claims perpetuates a “binary” perspective and stereotypes about Cuba's reliance on Venezuela.
In a Facebook post, Marxlenin challenged the notion she described as the cliché of “an uncertain Venezuela for Cuba.” She argued that the analysis missed a crucial element: the nearly 15 years between the fall of the Soviet Union and the arrival of Venezuelan aid, during which she believes Cuba was already showing signs of economic recovery.
As a commentator and regime spokesperson, she criticized the article for simplifying the “long-standing Cuban economic crisis” to two factors: the embargo/blockade and “the government's erratic economic policies.” She referred to this as a “schematic division” that ignores the impact of the socialist bloc's collapse.
In her statement, Marxlenin also highlighted what she sees as the “achievement” of the nation, led by Fidel, in overcoming the period following the Soviet Union's dissolution. She reproached the omission of this historical phase in contemporary analyses.
The post includes pointed criticisms of OnCuba, accusing it of perpetuating a “binary” approach summarized as “reforms or bombs.” She also claimed that the interview's title was “manipulated” and did not accurately reflect the interviewee's words, suggesting a sensationalist twist.
Furthermore, she alleged that the media outlet and others are attempting to build consensus around a political solution she describes as “cheap annexationism.” She criticized discussions of “reforms” without clarifying their specifics.
Who is Marxlenin and Why Her Views Matter
Marxlenin is a Doctor of Philosophical Sciences, a professor of Marxism at the University of Havana, and the host of the state-run program “Cuadrando la Caja.”
She is also closely tied to the historical leadership of Cuba, being married to Fidel Castro Smirnov, the grandson of Fidel Castro.
Marxlenin has been involved in recent controversies, including her televised defense of a government official who suggested changes to the Cuban diet and a post where she referred to critics as “worms.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuba's Economic Situation
What was Marxlenin's main critique of the OnCuba article?
Marxlenin criticized the article for presenting a “binary” perspective and for oversimplifying Cuba's economic issues to just the embargo and government policies, ignoring the impact of the collapse of the socialist bloc.
How does Marxlenin view Cuba's economic recovery after the Soviet Union's collapse?
Marxlenin believes that Cuba began its economic recovery before Venezuelan aid, specifically in the years following the Soviet Union's collapse, highlighting the nation's resilience under Fidel Castro's leadership.
Who is Marxlenin Pérez Valdés?
Marxlenin is a Doctor of Philosophical Sciences, a professor at the University of Havana, and a host on Cuban state television. She is also the wife of Fidel Castro Smirnov, linking her to Cuba's historical leadership.