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The Head of Mission at the United States Embassy in Cuba, Mike Hammer, visited the Manuel Fajardo Hospital in Havana on Monday, where the Cuban opposition leader Martha Beatriz Roque is hospitalized in critical condition, as reported by the independent outlet .
Roque, an economist and former prisoner of conscience from the Group of 75, is one of the most emblematic figures of dissent on the island and has repeatedly denounced the repression of the Cuban regime against opponents.
His health condition has worsened in recent days, which led to his hospitalization.
According to Berta Soler, leader of the Damas de Blanco, since the early hours of January 31, the health condition of Roque, 78 years old, has been reported as critical. Although he remains conscious, he is restless and suffers from complications related to his diabetes, including severe kidney failure.
In a medical report shared by Soler, it was explained that the dehydration with which she was admitted was treated with fluids, but her condition remains unstable.
The presence of State Security agents in the hospital has been noticeable, a detail that does not go unnoticed given Roque's background as an opponent of the Cuban regime.
Martha Beatriz Roque was the only woman imprisoned during the Black Spring of 2003, when the Cuban regime harshly repressed 75 dissidents.
In March 2024, she was recognized with the prestigious International Women of Courage Award (IWOC) awarded by the U.S. State Department, in acknowledgment of her work in defense of human rights and religious freedom in Cuba.
In December 2024, Hammer held a meeting with Roque and Soler on the occasion of Human Rights Day. During the meeting, issues concerning the human rights situation on the island and repression against the opposition were discussed.
The United States Embassy in Cuba has expressed its solidarity with Roque, highlighting her role as an unwavering advocate for human rights.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of Martha Beatriz Roque and the Visit of the U.S. Diplomat
Who is Martha Beatriz Roque and what is her current state of health?
Martha Beatriz Roque is a Cuban economist and a prominent opponent of the regime, known for being the only woman imprisoned during the Black Spring of 2003. She is currently hospitalized in serious condition due to health complications related to her diabetes, including severe renal failure. Her health condition is critical but has shown a slight improvement.
Why is Mike Hammer's visit to Martha Beatriz Roque relevant?
The visit of the Chief of Mission of the United States Embassy in Cuba, Mike Hammer, is significant due to the critical stance of the U.S. government towards the Cuban regime and its support for human rights. His presence underscores international support for Cuban dissidents and concern for their health status.
What has been the Cuban government's response to the situation of Martha Beatriz Roque?
The Cuban government has not provided a specific official response regarding the situation of Martha Beatriz Roque. However, the presence of State Security agents at the hospital where she is hospitalized indicates constant surveillance, reflecting the regime's concern about her dissenting activism.
What impact does U.S. support have on Cuban opponents?
The support from the United States, expressed through its diplomatic representation and visits such as that of Mike Hammer, reinforces the international recognition of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Cuba. This backing is crucial to maintaining visibility for the struggle of the opposition and pressing for changes in the policies of the Cuban regime.
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