The Cuban embassy in Madrid was discovered on Wednesday morning with fresh graffiti opposing the regime, highlighting the growing discontent among exiles in Europe.
Bold statements like “Cuba Libre” and “Patria y Vida” were clearly visible on the outer walls of the diplomatic building, alongside other messages condemning the dictatorship, all painted in black on the wall facing the street.
Images of the graffiti rapidly spread on social media early in the day, and according to activist Lázaro Mireles, the messages were swiftly removed. “The Castro-Communist embassy in Madrid woke up to graffiti against the Cuban regime, and out of fear, they rushed to erase it,” Mireles shared on his public profile, along with a video of the site.
This incident occurred amid the visit of U.S. diplomat Mike Hammer to Spain’s capital, where he met with over 100 Cuban residents in Europe, civil society members, and exile organizations.
During the gathering, Hammer emphasized that the future of the island must be determined by the Cuban people “in freedom, in peace, and with the opportunity for economic prosperity.” He conveyed the stance of President Donald Trump’s administration and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reaffirming America’s support for the Cuban populace.
“Change in Cuba is not just possible; it is inevitable,” Hammer declared to the attendees.
While the individuals responsible for the graffiti remain unidentified, this act is widely seen as a symbolic representation of the frustration persisting among Cubans abroad, particularly during a time of severe economic crisis and internal repression.
The images of the wall adorned with the phrase “Cuba Libre” stirred mixed emotions among emigrants who remain vigilant for any sign of protest, both inside and outside the country. For many, despite the graffiti being removed, the message remains potent.
As promises of international support and calls for a free Cuba echoed in Madrid, the embassy's walls temporarily served as a platform for protest.
Understanding the Recent Events at the Cuban Embassy in Madrid
What messages were painted on the Cuban embassy in Madrid?
The graffiti included phrases like “Cuba Libre” and “Patria y Vida,” along with other anti-dictatorship slogans.
Who is Lázaro Mireles?
Lázaro Mireles is an activist who reported the removal of the graffiti and shared images of it on social media.
What did U.S. diplomat Mike Hammer discuss during his visit to Madrid?
Mike Hammer met with Cuban residents and organizations in Europe, stressing that Cuba’s future should be determined by its people in freedom and peace.