The appearance of Miguel Díaz-Canel, calling for “resistance,” “unity,” “sacrifices,” and reminding that "surrender is not an option," sparked a wave of criticism, indignation, and rejection among Cubans.
Far from generating support or calm, his speech was perceived as "more of the same" and a repetition of unfulfilled promises amid the worst economic, political, and social crisis the country has faced in decades.
A video published by the independent media outlet Cubanet reflected a deep social weariness on the island, as it asked several ordinary citizens in the streets for their opinions on the presidential message.
Most of the interviewees stated that they couldn't even watch the hearing, either due to power outages, being at work, or because they had "more important things to do."
"Resist" without food, electricity, fuel, or medicine
Among those who did react to the speech, the call to "resist" was one of the most criticized points.
“If you want us to endure, then feed the people,” said one interviewee. Others were even harsher: “We can’t resist anymore; we are dying,” “this is the end; no one can withstand this any longer.”
Complaints were repeated regarding the scarcity of food and the collapse of the healthcare system.
"There are no medicines or doctors in the hospitals," a woman reported to the camera, a reality that is repeated throughout the Island.
A boring speech to capture the remaining youth
Díaz-Canel dedicated the conclusion of his speech to the youth and the "Cuban people," in an attempt to regain the social support that the regime has lost.
"When we talk about unity, it doesn't exist if the youth are not involved. When we talk about continuity, there can be none without them," he stated, despite the fact that this demographic has been leading the largest migration exodus in the country's recent history since 2021.
The event, broadcast on the YouTube channel of the Presidency of Cuba, was presented as an exchange with national and foreign press; however, among the supposed international media, only journalists aligned with the regime who collaborate with RT, Xinhua in Spanish, and Prensa Latina were present.
The leader acknowledged that Cuba is preparing for "more difficult times" and called for "more confidence in the government," "more savings," and understanding regarding "restrictive measures," in addition to announcing projects that will need to be postponed.
His words didn't move us, but they ignited the debate on social media, where thousands of Cubans are demanding an end to the dictatorship and a political change that offers them a future within the country.
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