Cuba will not surrender, declared President Miguel Díaz-Canel during an emotional meeting with Cuban solidarity movements in Rio de Janeiro, held alongside the 17th BRICS Summit.

In a packed hotel conference room and visibly moved, Díaz-Canel began by expressing sincere gratitude, reported news agency Prensa Latina. «We first want to deeply thank all the solidarity you’ve shown us – the campaigns, donations, accompaniment, and altruistic gestures,» he stated, acknowledging numerous support actions by the Brazilian people amid Cuba’s hardships.

After a pause, he continued firmly: «Now we’ll speak about Cuba’s current conditions, but also about paths to overcome our problems. You – friends of genuine society – can be certain: Cuba will not surrender.»

The Cuban leader reiterated condemnation of the US blockade, its extraterritorial nature, and intensification under recent administrations. «Over 80% of our population has lived their entire lives under this siege,» he emphasized.

With political courage, he explained the causes behind Cuba’s energy system collapse and its severe impacts on daily life and economic development. «Our people’s suffering pains us, but we’re convinced we will overcome,» Díaz-Canel affirmed.

He stressed that solidarity brings not only comfort but responsibility: «We cannot surrender by conviction, nor could we disrespect your support. Your solidarity deeply commits us.»

Later, meeting Brazilian intellectuals, Díaz-Canel addressed cultural and political themes, denouncing cultural colonization’s effects. He criticized entertainment platforms imposing distorted realities via social media, urging unity-in-diversity to counter this offensive.

He announced an upcoming meeting with political communicators, citing the Patria Colloquium as a space to devise emancipatory communication strategies. Looking ahead, he revealed 2026 will commemorate the centenary of Cuban Revolution leader Fidel Castro’s birth, with programmes highlighting his enduring legacy.

Reaffirming «creative resistance» – sustained by popular participation and national unity – he insisted: «Our people refuse defeat.» Thus, with resolve and warmth, Díaz-Canel concluded both gatherings marked by emotion, commitment, and conviction: though besieged, Cuba does not surrender. Latest News