From the Isle of Youth, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz reignited the embattled rhetoric that the regime has amplified in recent weeks. On Saturday, Marrero emphasized the precariousness of overconfidence among Cubans, despite their undeniable resolve and integrity.
"Our will, integrity, and firmness as Cubans are indisputable, but we must not become complacent," Marrero stated, highlighting that the "main enemy" is indeed overconfidence, according to a report by Canal Caribe.
These remarks came amidst military exercises featuring shooting drills, territorial defense simulations, and political and ideological actions, overseen by senior leaders of the National Defense Council. Within the official narrative, national defense extends beyond the military sphere, engaging the entire society under the doctrine of the so-called "war of the entire people."
Marrero's message arrives amid an increasingly hostile stance from the Cuban regime after the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro in an operation sanctioned by President Donald Trump. This event stirred Havana's regional allies and intensified the confrontational tone.
Since then, the Cuban government has bolstered its discourse of external threats, declaring that Saturdays will be systematically dedicated to the military, political, and ideological preparation of the population throughout 2026.
Images of military maneuvers, outdated rifles, and decades-old slogans circulate alongside accounts of citizens enduring nights without electricity or scavenging for food in barren markets.
In this context, Marrero's warning seems less like a call for national defense and more like a political tactic to keep the population in a constant state of alert, leveraging fear and the external threat.
Thus, while the government persists with trenches, drills, and war rhetoric, many Cubans feel that the real struggle is not fought in training fields but in their dark homes, empty kitchens, and the uncertainty of a nation still waiting for tangible solutions.
Understanding Cuba's Political and Social Climate
What is the significance of Marrero's recent statements?
Marrero's statements emphasize the need for vigilance against external threats, aligning with the regime's strategy to maintain control through fear and the perception of constant danger.
How does the Cuban government use military exercises in its rhetoric?
The government uses military exercises to project strength and unity, reinforcing the idea that the entire nation must be prepared for defense and fostering a narrative of resilience against external adversaries.
What challenges do ordinary Cubans face amidst the regime's rhetoric?
Ordinary Cubans face daily challenges such as power outages and food shortages, which starkly contrast with the government's focus on military preparedness and ideological training.