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An opinion piece published in the American outlet The Hill again scrutinized the role of the Cuban regime in international conflicts, highlighting what it describes as a long history of sending guerrillas and mercenaries to various countries since 1959.
The text, signed by former Nicaraguan ambassador Arturo McFields, argues that the recent death of 32 Cubans in Venezuela —following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3rd— is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a historical pattern of intervention promoted from Havana for over six decades.
According to the analysis, the regime has promoted these actions for three main objectives: to expand its political influence, consolidate power in international settings, and obtain economic benefits.
In this context, the author recalls that in 1959 the government of Fidel Castro sent armed expeditions to Panama, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Haiti, all of which resulted in failure and a high human cost.
After those initial attempts in Latin America, the strategy shifted to Africa in the 1960s, where Cuba achieved a greater presence. Angola is noted as one of the most significant cases, following the Cuban intervention that contributed to the country's independence in 1975, although it also resulted in thousands of Cuban deaths.
The article also highlights the role of Ernesto Guevara in promoting these operations, acting as a key figure in the expansion of insurgent movements across different continents. However, it also mentions significant failures, such as his death in Bolivia in 1967.
Regarding Venezuela, the text highlights that the bilateral relationship strengthened with the arrival of Hugo Chávez to power in 1999.
Since then, both countries have maintained a close connection, with Caracas supplying oil, while Havana sent military personnel, intelligence advisors, and healthcare professionals.
Some cited estimates place the number of around 20,000 Cubans operating on a rotational basis in Venezuelan territory.
The article also points to a contradiction in Cuban legislation, which prohibits mercenarism and imposes severe penalties, in contrast to the practices described.
In his conclusion, the author states that the recent events in Venezuela rekindle the debate about the role of the Cuban regime as an active player in international conflicts and its influence in the region.
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