Colombian President Gustavo Petro has stirred up controversy once again with his provocative statements, asserting that "living in Cuba is far superior to Miami living," dismissing the American city as a "ghostly spectacle" and a "glittering facade of capitalism."
In a recent speech, Petro drew comparisons between the experiences of Colombian migrants in the United States and those residing in the island nation ruled by Miguel Díaz-Canel's government. He urged his fellow countrymen to return from places like Chile, Argentina, and the U.S., claiming they are treated as "slaves and hounded like dogs in the streets."
The president declared, "It's vastly better to live in Cuba, surrounded by its rich culture, than in Miami, stuck in traffic without a culture of its own, merely mimicking Havana." He went on to describe Havana as "one of the most beautiful cities in the world."
Petro further stated that "Americans try to replicate Havana, but it's Havana that holds the true historical essence, something Miami lacks." He insisted that when one visits the "real" Havana, they find "a stunning city, among the world's best, not the images portrayed by the media."
Continuing his critique, Petro emphasized that Colombians abroad "are not treated with dignity," with few owning homes or cars, urging them to return home.
Moreover, he predicted Miami's eventual demise, likening it to Dubai, labeling both as "capitalist illusions."
These statements appear to be delusional and disconnected from the reality of Cuba's severe economic, political, and social crisis, characterized by power outages, food shortages, repression, and an unprecedented wave of migration.
Meanwhile, Miami remains the top destination for exiles and entrepreneurs from Latin America, including thousands of Cubans and Venezuelans fleeing regimes that Petro often praises.
Questions about Gustavo Petro's Statements and Their Implications
What did Gustavo Petro say about living in Cuba compared to Miami?
Gustavo Petro claimed that living in Cuba is far superior to living in Miami, criticizing the American city as a superficial representation of capitalism.
How did Petro describe Havana in his speech?
Petro described Havana as one of the most beautiful cities globally, insisting it holds a genuine cultural and historical significance that Miami lacks.
What was Petro's opinion on the treatment of Colombian migrants abroad?
Petro stated that Colombian migrants are not treated with dignity abroad and urged them to return to Colombia.