René González, Ramón Labañino, Gerardo Hernández, Fernando González, and Antonio Guerrero—the five former Cuban spies—gathered this week to celebrate State Security Day. The members of the failed Wasp Network appeared jubilant as they commemorated the founding of the agency responsible for the repression and imprisonment of thousands of activists and political opponents over more than six decades in Cuba.
"Sometimes it's hard for the five of us to get together due to our various responsibilities, but we couldn't miss commemorating the 63rd Anniversary of the MININT today, and the 65th of our DGI. Congratulations, brothers!" Gerardo, the most active among them, wrote on Facebook.
The former spies lead different lives in terms of responsibilities and roles, and not all of them are equally visible in the media. However, what they all share is a life far removed from the needs and hardships that plague the Cuban people. Their privileges stand out in a country going through its worst crisis.
In 2021, Ramón and Antonio visited facilities in Cayo Guillermo, a popular tourist destination in Ciego de Ávila, where they were seen enjoying the dolphinarium. Around the same time, Gerardo, the national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR), showcased his Specialized bicycle on social media, a brand renowned worldwide for its quality and high price.
These are the perks provided by the dictatorship to members of the Wasp Network, responsible for the regime's murder of four civilians aboard the "Brothers to the Rescue" planes. The five were arrested and sentenced in the United States to terms ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment after being proven to have infiltrated as spies for the Havana regime.
Following their capture, the late dictator Fidel Castro waged an expensive political campaign for years to secure their release and return to the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cuban Five
Here are some frequently asked questions about the five former Cuban spies and their activities, aimed at providing a deeper understanding of the subject.
Who are the Cuban Five?
The Cuban Five refers to René González, Ramón Labañino, Gerardo Hernández, Fernando González, and Antonio Guerrero, who were convicted in the United States of espionage for the Cuban government.
What was the Wasp Network?
The Wasp Network was a group of Cuban intelligence agents who infiltrated anti-Castro groups in the United States. Their activities included espionage and the disruption of anti-Castro initiatives.
What is the MININT?
MININT stands for the Ministry of the Interior in Cuba, responsible for state security, including intelligence and counterintelligence operations.
How did Fidel Castro react to their imprisonment?
Fidel Castro launched a prolonged and costly political campaign to secure the release of the Cuban Five, framing them as heroes unjustly imprisoned by the United States.