Cuban officials have united in support of Raúl Castro, the former president, following his indictment on murder charges related to the downing of two civilian planes 30 years ago.
A day after the charges were announced in Miami, Cuban government figures and state-run media took to social media. They shared images of Mr. Castro in his younger days as a soldier, interacting with children, and alongside his brother Fidel. The portrayals emphasized Castro’s honor and role as a leader.
Cuba’s current president, Miguel Díaz-Canel, expressed admiration in a video on X, stating, “He’s like a father to me.” The U.S. indictment accuses Mr. Castro of involvement in the 1996 incident where two civilian planes were shot down in international airspace near Cuba.
The charges confront the 95-year-old Castro with significant legal challenges in his advanced years. Despite not holding formal positions, he continues to be influential in Cuba.
Experts suggested that the indictment, possibly intended to pressure Cuba’s government by the Trump administration, could solidify Cuban officials’ resolve to resist U.S. pressure.
Images showed Cubans in Havana following news of Castro’s indictment. The situation is closely watched as Cuba’s leadership responds to the legal actions initiated by the United States.
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