With profound sorrow, the leadership of the Party, the State and the Government inform our people that in the early hours of this Sunday, 21 June, the historical Commander of the Revolution Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, Hero of the Republic of Cuba and of Labour, has passed away. He treasured a brilliant and extraordinary record of service to the Homeland.

Moncada Barracks assailant, Granma expeditionary, Rebel Army combatant in the Sierra Maestra, second Chief of the invading column No. 8 Ciro Redondo, and protagonist alongside Che in the battle of Santa Clara, Commander of the Revolution Ramiro Valdés Menéndez is worthy of the respect and admiration of the Cuban people for his dedication and proven loyalty to the revolutionary cause.

Further information will be provided in the coming hours.