Raúl Castro made a public appearance on Saturday alongside President Miguel Díaz-Canel at an event commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Personal Security Directorate. Images broadcasted by Canal Caribe confirmed this as his first verified appearance after a week filled with intense speculation about his possible death or severe health issues.
This reemergence occurred shortly after Miami media outlets circulated unconfirmed reports suggesting the historical leader was hospitalized and on life support.
El Diario de las Américas had reported that Castro was "gravely ill, assisted by life-support equipment, apparently due to a stroke," while WPLG Local 10 referenced retired professor Andy Gómez from the University of Miami, who attributed the information to "reliable sources within Cuba."
Before the event, the Cuban government did not release any official statement.
The Commemorative Event
The ceremony marked 65 years since the founding of the organization responsible for protecting the regime's top leaders, established on September 6, 1961. During the event, Interior Minister Lázaro Alberto Álvarez Casas read a letter signed by Raúl Castro, who was seated prominently in the front row, as the images revealed.
In his message, Castro congratulated the fighters and paid homage to Cubans who died in Venezuela: "I want to pay tribute today to our 32 comrades who fell in Venezuela while fulfilling their duty. May their spilled blood never be forgotten, and may their example guide the daily work of this directorate."
He also used the occasion to criticize Washington with the regime's customary rhetoric: "The revolution is experiencing difficult times under the hostility of the United States government, which continues to strive to erase the example that Cuba sets for the world."
During the ceremony, Brigadier General Emir Mesa Corona, Chief of the Personal Security Directorate, presented Castro with a recognition for his role as the founding head of the organization.
Castro briefly addressed the attendees at the end of the event: "This encounter has been very emotional for me. I want to express all the affection I feel for you as family, as brothers. Despite being under control for more than half of my life, I thank you from the bottom of my heart."
Recurring Speculations and Appearances
This appearance follows a pattern of sporadic public reappearances interspersed with absences that fuel recurring speculations. On July 26, he missed the Moncada central event for the first time in at least three decades, sparking another round of rumors. Weeks later, he reappeared at the Karl Marx Theater for Fidel Castro's centennial gala, donning an olive-green uniform and accompanied by his grandson.
At 95, Castro also faces a federal indictment in the United States related to the downing of Brothers to the Rescue planes on February 24, 1996, a charge declassified in May of this year. Rumors about his health have persisted for years; in May, a false social media montage announced his alleged death, typically initiated by low-credibility profiles and amplified without independent verification.
Frequently Asked Questions about Raúl Castro's Recent Appearance
What event did Raúl Castro recently attend?
Raúl Castro attended an event commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Personal Security Directorate, alongside President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Why were there rumors about Raúl Castro's health?
Rumors about Raúl Castro's health emerged due to unconfirmed reports of his hospitalization and being on life support, which were circulated by Miami media outlets.
Did the Cuban government comment on Raúl Castro's health rumors?
No, the Cuban government did not release any official statement regarding the health rumors before the commemorative event.