While millions of Cubans face another summer marked by blackouts, food shortages, lack of transportation, and few recreational options, the future Cuban repressors are enjoying pools, music, contests, and exclusive venues, as part of the official start of their "revolutionary summer."
A recent post from the Western Army on Facebook displays images of young soldiers engaged in recreational activities, which include swimming in pools, playing dominoes, casino games, and guided tours of ideological centers such as the José Martí Memorial and the Fidel Castro Ruz Center.
“The vibe of commitment and fun can be felt,” states the text, which celebrates the arrival of summer with a program filled with privileges for the future military cadres of the regime, while the youth in the civilian sector struggles to survive amidst prolonged power outages and a lack of real cultural or recreational offerings.
The military propaganda claims that these activities "strengthen the revolutionary spirit," but on social media, the images actually reveal the privileges enjoyed by those aligned with the government.
"Youth that dances, thinks, creates, and defends. Youth that leaves a mark... and spreads hope," the text stated.
The contrast is even more evident when compared to the recent statements from the government, which has acknowledged the serious limitations of summer 2025.
Although the regime attempts to promote "organized and healthy vacations," in practice, the country is experiencing a period of energy crisis, inflation, and rising public discontent, where few families have access to any form of entertainment.
In this context, military celebrations not only showcase an alternate reality but also reinforce the perception that the system rewards those who serve it as a tool for control and punishment, while the rest of the country sinks into heat, frustration, and oblivion.
With thousands of young people emigrating or struggling to survive in precarious conditions, witnessing the future oppressors enjoying state privileges is not only offensive but also profoundly revealing.
Amid a growing energy crisis and under extreme economic conditions, the Cuban government launched its summer campaign 2025 under the slogan “Always Young,” with a proposal aimed at keeping Cubans ―especially children and young people― entertained without leaving their communities.
During a recent edition of the Round Table, representatives from INDER, the Young Communists Union (UJC), and the Ministry of Culture announced that this summer will be characterized by "modest yet aesthetic" activities, focusing on the neighborhood as the main stage and featuring significant youth involvement.
The official narrative appeals to the "rescue of traditions," "family unity," and "knowledge of national history," while avoiding direct mention of the impossibility of access to real recreational options due to inflation, power outages, and the collapse of transportation.
Raúl Fornés Valenciano, the first vice president of INDER, assured that actions must "utilize free time in a productive and healthy way," and emphasized that the activities will not be separate by organization, but rather an integration of sports, culture, education, and workplaces.
The emphasis is on families being "beneficiaries" and making the most of "modest resources" with creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Summer 2025 in Cuba and the Energy Situation
Why are Cubans facing prolonged blackouts in the summer of 2025?
Power outages in Cuba during the summer of 2025 are due to a significant energy deficit, with electricity availability far below the country's demand. Deteriorated infrastructure, inadequate maintenance of thermal power plants, and fuel shortages are critical factors contributing to this situation. Without structural changes, such as increasing thermal capacity or accelerating renewable energy projects, power outages will continue to be a persistent issue.
What recreational activities does the Cuban government offer for the summer of 2025?
The Cuban government has launched a summer campaign called “Always Young”, which promotes recreational activities within the communities. These activities include cultural events, artistic and sports workshops, but they are limited due to the economic and energy crisis. The campaign aims to keep the population, especially children and young people, entertained without needing to leave their neighborhoods.
Why is there a contrast between the living conditions of civilians and military personnel in Cuba?
There is a notable contrast between the living conditions of civilians and young military personnel in Cuba, as future military leaders enjoy privileges such as swimming pools and exclusive recreational activities, while the civilian population faces blackouts, food shortages, and limited recreational options. This contrast reinforces the perception that the regime rewards those who serve it, while the rest of the country suffers the consequences of the crisis.
How does the energy crisis affect the daily lives of Cubans?
The energy crisis in Cuba severely impacts the daily life of Cubans, affecting the availability of electricity for household activities, food and medicine storage, and the functioning of basic services. Prolonged blackouts create an atmosphere of uncertainty and despair, adversely affecting health and family finances. The population has expressed its discontent through protests and criticism on social media.
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