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A new case involving the participation of Cuban citizens in the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine has shocked the community since Sunday, following the announcement of the death of one of the participants in the war.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada confirmed via his Facebook account the death of Michael Valido, a 31-year-old Cuban, while fighting on the Russian side in the war against Ukraine.
Valido, who lived in San Miguel del Padrón in Havana, was recruited in July 2023 by an officer identified as Dayana.
According to the details shared, his journey was organized from Varadero, in Matanzas, with a one-year contract to participate in the war. Initially, he was assigned to tasks in the second line of combat, mainly for debris and corpses collection.
The young man had life plans that included returning to Cuba after completing his contract in June 2024, and later emigrating to Brazil or Nicaragua with the intention of reaching the United States. However, these dreams were shattered with the news of his death, which was communicated to his family last Saturday.
Michael Valido leaves behind his parents, María Cristina Oropeza and Ricardo Fernández, as well as his son and his sister Amanda.
According to the report, their involvement in the conflict was motivated by economic promises, which included a payment of approximately $4,000 upon completion of the contract.
During the war that Russia is waging against Ukraine, several deaths of Cubans who have been recruited to fight on the Russian side have been reported.
In August 2024, Jolius Bernal lost his life under similar circumstances, driven once again by economic promises.
In May of the same year, Eduardo Montero Martínez became yet another victim, leaving his family in shock.
In January 2024, the deaths of Raibel Palacio Herrera and Yansiel Morejón were reported, the latter being a boxer recruited as a mercenary.
They all shared a common denominator: the pursuit of a better future in light of the lack of opportunities in Cuba.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022, has evolved into a large-scale conflict that has redefined global geopolitical dynamics.
Russia, under the leadership of Vladimir Putin, justified the offensive by claiming the need to "demilitarize" and "denazify" Ukraine, arguments that have been widely challenged by the international community.
Throughout 2024, the conflict has experienced a notable intensification. In December, Russia launched a missile attack on Kiev, resulting in civilian casualties and significant damage to key infrastructures.
In this context, the involvement of foreign citizens, including Cubans, has been a controversial aspect. As the war drags on, the humanitarian and geopolitical implications continue to expand, affecting not only the nations directly involved but also third countries whose citizens find themselves caught up in the conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Participation of Cubans in the War between Russia and Ukraine
Why are Cuban citizens participating in the war between Russia and Ukraine?
Cuban citizens are participating in the war due to economic promises and migration improvements. Many are recruited with the promise of high salaries and migration opportunities, but they often encounter conditions very different from what was promised, and unfortunately, some have lost their lives in the conflict.
What is the recruitment process for Cubans to join the war in Ukraine?
Recruitment is conducted through deception, promising construction jobs and high salaries. Upon arriving in Russia, Cubans undergo brief military training and are sent to the front lines. This process has been denounced by the recruits themselves and by international organizations.
What impact has the involvement of Cubans in the war had on the international perception of Cuba?
The involvement of Cubans in the war has sparked criticism and raised questions about the complicity of the Cuban regime. Despite official denials, there are allegations of collaboration between Cuba and Russia in these processes, which has impacted the country's international image and highlighted the economic desperation that drives Cubans to participate in the conflict.
What do the relatives of the Cubans who died in the war say?
Family members express shock and sorrow over the loss of their loved ones. Many of the young people who participated did so with the hope of improving their living conditions, but their dreams were cut short by their deaths in the conflict. Families mourn their loss and question the promises that led their relatives to such a dangerous fate.
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