Families of the four Cubans who died in the fire in Russia achieve their repatriation after months of anguish

More than two months after the tragic fire that claimed the lives of four Cubans in an illegal hostel on the outskirts of Moscow, their families have finally achieved what seemed uncertain: the possibility of bringing them back to the island.

The news was confirmed this weekend by Abdel Ávila Aguilera, who identified himself as a cousin of one of the victims, Yadisley de Arma Aguilera, and who has been directly involved in the efforts since the beginning of the case.

The process has not been easy. Since January 27, the day the fire occurred, the families have faced weeks of paperwork, sleepless nights, and a heavy emotional burden in their attempt to repatriate the remains of the young people.

In a post made on Saturday, Ávila Aguilera alerted about a critical obstacle: the funds raised to cover the transportation were being held on a platform, preventing progress with the repatriation of two of the victims. Meanwhile, only the return of the two young women had been secured, scheduled for this March 23rd.

"The responsibility for that transfer does not fall on us," he had warned, amidst tensions and calls to other family members to take action due to the uncertainty surrounding the blocked money.

However, in a later update, the situation changed.

"Today, thanks to new efforts and solutions that have been achieved, we can share news that brings us relief: the four young people will be able to return home," he announced.

Although no details were provided on how the financial issue was resolved, the message conveys the outcome that the families had been hoping for over the past weeks: the joint return of the four deceased to Cuba.

"It has been very difficult days, with many changes and last-minute decisions, but the goal has always been the same: for everyone to return to their families," he expressed.

The fire broke out around 4:40 a.m. (local time) on January 27 in a three-story building located in the Zvorkino neighborhood, about 15 kilometers east of the Russian capital.

The fire, which affected an area of about 35 square meters, started on the second floor of the building and was brought under control after approximately an hour of work by the firefighters.

The initial investigations indicate that the fire broke out when residents lit flames to keep warm in the absence of heating, after the electricity supply was cut off due to unpaid debts, during the harsh Russian winter.

Russian authorities believe that the shelter was operating illegally, as it was not registered and the tenants did not have lease contracts. The property owner, according to official sources, resides in London.

Now, after weeks of uncertainty, the pain is beginning to find a semblance of comfort.

The four Cubans, identified as Yadisley de Arma Aguilera, Aris Gonzáles, Ángel Gabriel Rodríguez Febles, and Liaro Arpajón Otaño, are returning home.

For their families, it is the end of a wait marked by desperation. For many Cubans, both on the island and abroad, it is also a reminder of the risks and sacrifices that today accompany emigration.