Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel has voiced his support for the protests in Argentina opposing President Javier Milei's policies, stating that "everyone must rise" in defense of just causes and against any form of aggression. His remarks were made during the Patria Colloquium, an event held last week in Havana that gathered leftist activists and supporters.
During the event, Díaz-Canel emphasized the importance of Latin America pursuing its own technological and strategic development to counter external pressures. "We must achieve technological sovereignty [...] Latin America is incredibly talented and capable of accomplishing these things. We should never underestimate the talent of our compatriots. If we root this talent in our history, principles, humanism, and the desire to build a better world, we will succeed. No battle is impossible for us," he asserted.
In this context, the Cuban leader highlighted the need for an "anti-hegemonic offensive" grounded in creative resistance, solidarity among nations, and international condemnation of any form of aggression. "If the Argentine people are marching these days due to the hardships they are facing, we all must rise," he declared to applause, referring to the demonstrations against Milei's economic adjustments.
The recent protests in Argentina have been organized by unions and social groups opposing President Milei's pension policies. Since taking office in December 2023, Milei has implemented a series of radical economic measures aimed at reducing the fiscal deficit and liberalizing the economy, which has led to significant tensions with opposition sectors.
However, Díaz-Canel's support for the protests in Argentina starkly contrasts with the Cuban government's approach, which has systematically suppressed any form of dissent within its own borders. During the protests of July 11, 2021, thousands of Cubans took to the streets to protest against the economic crisis, food shortages, and lack of freedoms.
The government's response was a severe crackdown, with hundreds arrested, facing summary trials, and receiving sentences of up to 25 years in prison, as documented by human rights organizations and independent media. Despite condemning repression in other countries, the Cuban regime does not allow any protests or criticism of its political system.
In recent years, activists, artists, and independent journalists have faced arbitrary arrests, intense surveillance, and travel restrictions. The case of the San Isidro Movement and the thwarted protests of November 15, 2021, which were met with heavy militarization and preemptive detentions, exemplifies Díaz-Canel's double standard.
Understanding the Political Tensions in Cuba and Argentina
What are the main reasons for the protests in Argentina against President Milei?
The protests in Argentina are primarily driven by opposition to President Javier Milei's economic policies, including pension reforms aimed at reducing the fiscal deficit and liberalizing the economy, which have been met with resistance from unions and social organizations.
How has the Cuban government responded to internal protests?
The Cuban government has responded to internal protests with severe repression, including mass arrests, summary trials, and lengthy prison sentences for protestors, as evidenced during the July 11, 2021 demonstrations.
What is the significance of technological sovereignty as mentioned by Díaz-Canel?
Díaz-Canel emphasized technological sovereignty as crucial for Latin America to maintain independence and resist external pressures, highlighting the region's talent and potential for innovation.