Cuban Officials Rally Around Raúl Castro Amid Indictment

Raúl Castro, the former president and revolutionary figure in Cuba, faces a new challenge with an indictment for murder charges related to the downing of two civilian planes 30 years ago. The charges were filed in Miami, accusing him of involvement in the 1996 shooting of aircraft in international airspace near Cuba.

A strong wave of support for Mr. Castro has emerged in Cuba. State-run media and government officials are using social media to bolster his image as a respected leader. Many posts depict him in various positive roles, from his time as a young soldier to moments shared with his brother Fidel Castro.

Miguel Díaz-Canel, the current president of Cuba, expressed his admiration for Castro, describing him as a father figure in a video shared on social media platform X. As Mr. Castro approaches his 95th birthday, the indictment marks a significant test during his retirement from official state duties, although he still holds significant influence in Cuba.

The charges from the United States have sparked discussions among experts, suggesting pressure from the Trump administration. However, they also anticipate a strong resistance from Cuban officials, who may use this moment as a unifying point against external pressure from the United States.