On Wednesday, Raúl Castro sent a letter to the University of Medical Sciences of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (UCIMED-FAR) in celebration of its 45th anniversary. The letter reiterated the regime's stance on unity and defense against perceived external threats, according to the Cuban News Agency.
The message was delivered by Major General Ramón E. Rodríguez Morfa during a ceremony at the Dr. Carlos J. Finlay Military Hospital in Havana. At 95, the former Army General maintains a low public profile, often communicating through letters read by others at official events.
The ceremony was led by the Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, Álvaro López Miera, alongside First Deputy Minister Roberto Legrá Sotolongo. Also present were the Minister of Higher Education, Walter Baluja García, and Deputy Minister of Public Health Julio Guerra Izquierdo, as well as members of the accredited military diplomatic corps in Cuba.
In the letter, Castro stated, "In these times, ensuring the unity and independence of the Homeland remains our highest priority. We are proud of your achievements in fulfilling all tasks assigned by the country's top leadership and your own command."
This statement encapsulates the tone of a communication that, like others sent throughout 2026, calls for internal cohesion within military structures during the regime-declared "Year of Defense Preparation."
Castro also praised the institution's educational efforts, noting, "For over four decades, this collective has produced highly skilled professionals who ensure medical support for military units, hospitals, and our people."
During the event, commemorative stamps were distributed, the specialties of Gynecology and Obstetrics and Toxicology were accredited as Excellent, and Doctors in Science José Hernán Salas and Eloy Andrés Frías received the title of Doctor Honoris Causa.
López Miera presented a diploma recognizing the institution's academic and scientific achievements.
UCIMED-FAR, founded on October 7, 1981, as the Higher Institute of Military Medicine, adopted its current university designation in 2009. It is the only Cuban higher education institution dedicated exclusively to training military medical personnel and holds the Carlos J. Finlay Order.
This letter is part of a series of epistolary messages Castro has addressed in 2026 to various military institutions, including the Central, Eastern, and Western Armies, and civilian defense workers, all with a propagandistic narrative focused on preparation against what the regime portrays as an external threat.
His last known public appearance occurred on August 13 at the centennial celebration of Fidel Castro at the Karl Marx Theater, where he was present without delivering a speech or statements.
Understanding Raúl Castro's Recent Communications
What is the significance of Raúl Castro's letter to UCIMED-FAR?
Raúl Castro's letter to UCIMED-FAR emphasizes the importance of unity and independence as key priorities for Cuba, reflecting the regime's focus on internal cohesion and defense against external threats.
Who attended the UCIMED-FAR anniversary ceremony?
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures such as the Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces Álvaro López Miera, First Deputy Minister Roberto Legrá Sotolongo, and other high-ranking officials and diplomatic representatives.
What achievements were recognized during the UCIMED-FAR ceremony?
The ceremony highlighted the educational achievements of UCIMED-FAR, recognizing specializations in Gynecology and Obstetrics and Toxicology as Excellent, and awarding Doctor Honoris Causa titles to distinguished scientists.