Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer expressed his conviction on Tuesday that the Cuban regime is on the brink of losing power. He emphasized that the leadership is not intent on holding out till the end; instead, they have already plotted their escape.
During an interview with Tania Costa, Ferrer elaborated on what he perceives as the escape strategy of the Cuban authorities. "Cuba boasts an extensive coastline," he explained, "and I am convinced there are over 20, 30, or even 50 points equipped with fast boats ready for a quick getaway when tensions escalate," remarked the founder of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU).
Moreover, Ferrer speculated about the existence of an escape aircraft. "We're not just talking about boats. There must be a plane that is consistently maintained, with checks like 'Is everything in order? Is the plane ready?'—all set for a hasty departure when the situation deteriorates," he stated.
The Illusion of Sacrifice
Ferrer criticized the narrative of sacrifice promoted by Miguel Díaz-Canel, asserting it lacks substance. "They won't sacrifice themselves. Díaz-Canel's stories of resilience are just that—stories," he stated, dismissing the Cuban leader's speeches. Back in April 2026, Díaz-Canel told NBC News that resignation "is not in our vocabulary," and by August, he had declared his willingness to die for the revolution.
Ferrer also warned about the impending consequences for the Cuban populace when the regime collapses. "They will lose. I am 100% certain of their defeat, but innocents will die," he cautioned. According to Ferrer, the regime leaders and their repressive apparatus will be the first to seek safe haven, leaving ordinary citizens to bear the brunt.
Lessons from Venezuela
Ferrer drew parallels with the Venezuelan scenario, highlighting how the Cuban regime had "exposed" 32 or more individuals—members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) and the Ministry of the Interior (MININT)—during the U.S. operation that captured Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2026, while top officials safeguarded themselves. Of those 32 Cuban fatalities, 11 were from the Armed Forces and 21 from the Interior Ministry, several linked to Maduro’s personal security.
“Those they might sacrifice, as they did with over 32 in Venezuela, are precisely the people they employ in the FAR and MININT," Ferrer stressed, highlighting that the lives of mid-level officials and agents are of minimal concern to the regime's leaders.
Historical Comparisons
To elucidate the regime's internal decay, Ferrer compared it to the Persian Empire under Darius III during its decline, which fell to Alexander the Great due to its elite's abandonment of discipline. "It was a weakened, corrupt empire, where leaders prioritized indulgence over military rigor and virtue," Ferrer commented, adding, "Corruption has entirely consumed them, devoured by their own excesses, pleasures, and opulence."
Ferrer’s remarks came after participating in a panel titled "Cuba Libre: the Oppression Havana Hides," alongside artist and former political prisoner Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara. The event, hosted by the United States Mission to the UN and Archivo Cuba, was marred by a protest led by Cuban diplomats, including Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, who shouted "terrorists" and made offensive gestures at the panelists.
This incident unfolded just days before the annual vote by the UN General Assembly on the U.S. embargo resolution against Cuba, scheduled for October 27 and 28, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions about José Daniel Ferrer's Statements
What is José Daniel Ferrer's stance on the Cuban regime's future?
Ferrer is convinced that the Cuban regime will fall and believes its leaders have already planned their escape rather than resisting until the end.
How does Ferrer describe the escape plan of Cuban leaders?
Ferrer suggests that Cuban leaders have multiple points along the coast with fast boats ready for a quick escape, and possibly even a plane maintained for immediate departure.
What comparison does Ferrer make to highlight the regime's state?
Ferrer compares the current Cuban regime to the Persian Empire during its decline, emphasizing corruption and a focus on luxury over military and moral discipline.