The Capture of Nicolás Maduro: A Complex Issue for Cuba
The US's capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has sparked anxiety in Cuba, a country with a complex history with the United States.
Dr Ifraín Pérez, a Cuban doctor who served in Venezuela, was among those in Havana who were deeply concerned about the news. He shared, "It’s really pretty unpleasant news – for Cuba and the world. I’m worried because I know many Venezuelans. I have a great affinity with that people because of what I lived through with them. The most important thing is to achieve stability and that President Nicolás Maduro go back to his nation."
The incident has raised tensions between the US and Cuba, with the Cuban president, Miguel Díaz-Canel, calling it an "unacceptable, vulgar and barbarian kidnapping." The US attack on Venezuela evoked memories of the US occupation of Cuba in the 20th century and CIA-backed attempts to overthrow Fidel Castro's government. However, the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, warned that Cuba should be concerned about the situation.
The capture of Maduro has removed a key ally for the Cuban government, as Venezuela's subsidized oil supply has been crucial to keeping the island's electrical system functioning. Blackouts have become common in Cuba, and the malfunctioning energy network has been exacerbated by the US naval blockade on Venezuela. This has left Cubans like Reina María Arias, a retired 68-year-old, worried about the future. She said, "[Venezuela] helped us a lot, and now with this problem I don’t know where we’re going to end up."
Despite the official condemnation and private fears, opinions among Cubans are far from unanimous. Some people even suggest that the US forces should come to Cuba to take Díaz-Canel away. However, there is no opposition leader in Cuba to take charge of the country. The situation remains complex and uncertain, with many Cubans anxiously awaiting the outcome of the political turmoil in Venezuela.
And this is the part most people miss... The US's actions in Venezuela have sparked a debate about the balance of power in the region and the role of the US in global affairs. It also raises questions about the future of Cuba's relationship with Venezuela and the potential impact on the island's economy and stability.
