Cuba Rallies Around Raúl Castro Amid Indictment

Former Cuban President Raúl Castro faces charges of murder related to the downing of two civilian planes three decades ago. In response, Cuban officials have united to support him.

The charges were announced in Miami, accusing Mr. Castro of involvement in the 1996 incident where aircraft were shot down over international waters. Though no longer the head of state or armed forces leader, Mr. Castro, who is nearly 95, remains influential in Cuba and is revered by many as a revolutionary hero.

State-run Cuban media and officials took to social platforms to showcase Mr. Castro’s legacy. Posts featured images of him as a young soldier, interacting with children, and laughing with his brother, Fidel Castro. Statements praised his character and leadership qualities.

“He’s like a father to me,” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said in a video shared online.

The indictment surfaces as a significant challenge late in Mr. Castro’s life. Experts suggest the charges could be a strategic move by the U.S. administration to pressure Cuba’s government. However, they believe the indictment might instead consolidate national support around Mr. Castro.

Cuban citizens in Havana have followed news updates about the U.S. indictment closely. The situation appears to foster a sense of unity among the Cuban government, which is prepared to resist external pressures.