The recent address by Miguel Díaz-Canel urging "endurance," "unity," and "sacrifices," while emphasizing that "surrender is not an option," has sparked a wave of criticism and discontent among the Cuban populace.
Rather than instilling support or reassurance, his speech was dismissed as "more of the same," echoing a litany of unfulfilled promises amidst Cuba's most severe economic, political, and social crisis in decades.
A video released by the independent news outlet Cubanet captured the deep social frustration prevalent on the island, as several ordinary citizens were asked on the streets for their thoughts on the presidential message.
The majority of those interviewed confessed they didn't even watch the address, whether due to power outages, work commitments, or simply having "more important things to do."
Endurance Amid Scarcity: Food, Electricity, and Medicine
Among those who did respond to the speech, the call to "endure" was one of the most heavily criticized aspects.
"If he wants us to endure, he should provide people with food," one interviewee remarked. Others were more blunt: "We can't endure any longer, we're dying here," and "this is the end, we can't take it anymore."
The grievances echoed around the shortage of food and the collapse of the healthcare system.
"There are no medicines or doctors in the hospitals," a woman stated in front of the camera, a harsh reality resonating across the island.
A Tedious Appeal to the Remaining Youth
Díaz-Canel concluded his speech with an appeal to the youth and the "Cuban people" in an effort to regain the social support the regime has lost.
"When we talk about unity, there is none if the youth aren't involved. When we discuss continuity, it doesn't exist without them," he asserted, despite the fact that this demographic has led the largest migratory exodus in the nation's recent history since 2021.
Broadcast on the YouTube channel of the Cuban Presidency, the address was presented as an exchange with national and international media, although the so-called international outlets included only regime-friendly journalists from RT, Xinhua in Spanish, and Prensa Latina.
The president acknowledged that Cuba is bracing for "tougher times" and called for "more trust in the government," "more savings," and understanding of "restrictive measures," while also announcing that certain projects would need to be postponed.
His words failed to resonate but ignited a fierce debate on social media, where thousands of Cubans demand the end of the dictatorship and a political shift that promises a future within the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Current Crisis
What were the main criticisms of Díaz-Canel's speech?
The speech was criticized for being repetitive and failing to address the immediate needs of the Cuban people, such as food, electricity, and healthcare.
How did Díaz-Canel's call for endurance resonate with the public?
The call for endurance was met with frustration and anger, as many Cubans feel they cannot endure further hardships without basic necessities.
Why is the youth demographic crucial for the Cuban regime?
The youth are vital for the regime as they represent the future of the country. Without their support, the regime struggles to maintain continuity and unity.