Amidst the severe economic and energy crisis plaguing Cuba, General Raúl Castro made his first public appearance in weeks to welcome Lieutenant General Alexander Viacheslavovich Kurenkov, Russia's Minister of Emergency Situations, to Havana. This meeting, held on Thursday afternoon, focused on strengthening cooperative ties between the two nations, particularly as the island battles the aftermath of devastating hurricanes and widespread energy shortages, according to an official statement from the Cuban government.
Castro emphasized the longstanding friendship between Cuba and Russia, expressing gratitude for the Russian government's ongoing support, which has been crucial during times of emergency. He specifically highlighted the generous donations from Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations, which have included aid for Cuban firefighters and rescuers, as well as assistance in rebuilding infrastructure damaged by natural disasters, as stated in the release.
Challenges Intensify for the Cuban Regime
The meeting occurred against a backdrop of mounting concern over Cuba's internal situation. In recent weeks, hurricanes Oscar and Rafael, along with several earthquakes, have wreaked havoc on the eastern region. Additionally, the nation faces severe energy issues, with widespread blackouts affecting nearly the entire population. In this challenging context, support from Havana's longstanding ally has been indispensable. Last week, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel met with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitri Chernichenko, who announced a $65 million loan to assist Cuba in tackling its energy crisis.
This financial aid is supplemented by other agreements, including a loan exceeding $60 million for fuel purchases and a $2 million donation aimed at repairing Cuba’s severely deteriorated electrical system. Russia's backing extends beyond technical assistance to include a restructuring of Cuba's debt. In March, Moscow approved changes to existing credit agreements, allowing Cuba to defer payments and settle them in rubles, easing the economic strain on the island.
Raúl Castro's Symbolic Return
Raúl Castro's reemergence on the Cuban political scene coincides with a critical juncture for the country. Despite speculation about his health, the former Cuban leader continues to play a symbolic and strategic role in Cuba's international relations, hosting high-profile dignitaries from allied nations, such as Chinese official Li Shulei, who visited the island in mid-October. However, Castro's appearances are becoming increasingly sporadic, and his influence over internal decision-making seems to have waned in recent months.
Meanwhile, President Díaz-Canel faces mounting domestic criticism over his handling of natural disasters and the economic crisis. In recent weeks, he has traveled to provinces impacted by hurricane Oscar, where residents have voiced their frustration over the lack of resources and attention to address flooding, relentless power outages, and the shortage of potable water.