Cuban-American Congressman Carlos Giménez declared on Saturday that the liberation of Cuba is imminent, expressing his intention to celebrate the upcoming New Year in Havana. His remarks came during the events commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Bay of Pigs Invasion.
Giménez shared his insights with journalist Iván Kasanzew from Martí Noticias at a ceremony held in Miami, honoring the pilots of Brigade 2506.
When questioned directly about whether Cuba would gain freedom this year, the congressman confidently replied, "I believe so, that next year, New Year's in Havana. Let's see, God willing."
The Personal Significance of Playa de Girón
The congressman highlighted the personal importance of this date: "Two of my cousins are veterans of the battle, and also a friend. For me, Playa de Girón is personal, and it is personal for all exiled Cubans as well."
He paid tribute to the brigade members and cautioned against attempts to rewrite history: "These are people who have sacrificed their lives. Many of them died, and others are no longer with us. It is important to remember because, lately, there has been a tendency to alter the truth and change history."
A Historical Betrayal
As the only member of the U.S. Congress born in Cuba, Giménez labeled President Kennedy's decision to withdraw air support from Brigade 2506 as a historic betrayal: "They needed help, the support of President Kennedy, and he didn't provide it. That was a significant betrayal by the American government to us Cubans. But now, I believe we have a different president, and things will change." His words align with the hopeful and direct messages from the Cuban exile community in recent weeks.
Recalling Castro's Deception
Giménez also recalled Fidel Castro's initial deceit of the Cuban people: "Fidel Castro promised elections in six months and never told anyone he was a communist... it was a great deception. It is time to correct that deception and grant Cuba and its people freedom and democracy, and it must happen now."
His statements occur amid heightened diplomatic activities between Washington and Havana. Last Friday, U.S. State Department officials met in Havana with Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, Raúl Castro's grandson, marking the first landing of a U.S. government plane on the island since former President Obama's visit.
The Trump administration has conditioned any agreements on structural reforms: free elections, the release of political prisoners, and political and economic openness. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated on Friday, "We don't want a humanitarian crisis. We want to force change and allow the Cuban people to be free."
"The Cuban people deserve freedom, and that is what they were fighting for, simply for next year, New Year's in Havana," added the official.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuba's Path to Freedom
What did Carlos Giménez say about Cuba's future?
Carlos Giménez expressed confidence that Cuba's liberation is near and stated his intention to celebrate the next New Year in Havana.
Why does Giménez consider Playa de Girón important?
Giménez finds Playa de Girón significant due to personal connections, as two of his cousins and a friend are veterans of the battle.
What historical event did Giménez label as a betrayal?
Giménez described President Kennedy's decision to withdraw air support from Brigade 2506 during the Bay of Pigs Invasion as a historic betrayal.