A Cuban identified as @yandrydz has sparked debate again on TikTok after sharing new videos in which he reaffirms his decision to return to Cuba from the United States and insists that he has no intention of going back. In the recordings, he defends his stance with the argument that “in Cuba there is no freedom of expression, but in the United States there is no freedom of time.”
The young man, who has shared his story after having "self-deported" from the United States, posted a video in which he compares life in both countries and claims that, unlike the lack of freedom of expression in Cuba, in American territory people are trapped in workdays that prevent them from enjoying their time. “In Cuba, having money is what makes life better, you don't need anyone to tell you that,” he states in the video posted on TikTok.
The post, which has received thousands of views, generated hundreds of comments and mixed reactions. Some users supported it for prioritizing personal well-being, while others criticized it for ignoring the country's economic and social situation. "You can also tell me quietly where you make your money, please," wrote one person, reminding them that "in Cuba, not only is there no freedom of expression, there is nothing at all."
The young man responded to the criticism by stating that he had achieved economic stability before returning to the island: “In Cuba, I did it to leave, and in the U.S., I did it twice to live the rest of my life without working; in fact, I already threw away my 5 am alarm clock.”
In another video he showcased two cars and reiterated his refusal to return to the United States. “I left the United States and I'm not going back, I'm not going back,” he stated while showing off the vehicles. “One is for going out, that one is for enjoyment, that's not for working (...) why would I want to be in the United States? To be just like you all, getting up at 5 in the morning? You can keep that; I don't want that, I want to enjoy my life.”
The new statements reignited the debate on social media. Among the comments, several users warned that “when the money runs out” or “if he gets sick,” his situation would change. Others responded sarcastically, claiming they would rather “wake up at 5 am but with freedom.” Still, the young man insisted: “You can bet on that, I'm not going back to slavery.”
The case is part of a recent trend among Cubans who claim to have voluntarily returned from abroad, stating that they can live “without stress” or “in peace” on the island. However, these personal experiences generate debate and skepticism, especially in a context marked by power outages, inflation, and shortages of basic goods.
In his first viral appearance, the same user showcased his home equipped with solar panels and a modern car, claiming that he had worked in the United States to come back and live “without alarms or schedules.” The combination of this narrative and the images of prosperity has turned his case into one of the most talked-about in recent weeks.
While some emphasize their right to decide how and where to live, most reactions highlight the gap between their individual vision and the reality faced by the population in Cuba. Their message, focused on the pursuit of personal tranquility, stands in stark contrast to a country where economic stability and well-being remain out of reach for the majority.
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