This week, a group of left-wing politicians and activists from around the world is set to arrive in Cuba as part of the Nuestra America Convoy, a demonstration in support of the communist Castro government.
In the meantime, various leftist organizations are blaming former President Donald Trump’s administration for having “strangled” Cuba, which, they argue, has resulted in severe consequences for vulnerable populations—like newborns and the elderly. This perspective, however, somewhat overlooks the fact that the Castro regime has maintained a tight grip on Cuba for 67 years, often leading to widespread poverty and suffering. It’s also worth noting that these groups are silent on the regime’s harsh treatment of dissenters who are merely seeking an end to decades of communism.
The Nuestra America Convoy claims its mission is to deliver “humanitarian aid” to Cuba, promoting international “acts of solidarity with the Cuban people” along Havana’s Malecon. According to Granma, the official newspaper of the Cuban Communist Party, the convoy—comprising approximately 500 individuals from around 30 different nations—has pledged to bring “20 tonnes” of aid to the island.
Prominent figures supporting the initiative include British socialist Jeremy Corbyn, various leftist Spaniards, former Iranian leaders, and others associated with groups known for their far-left views. Notably, Pablo Iglesias, a left-wing television host from Spain, and members of the European Parliament have also expressed their commitment. Additionally, the People’s Forum’s secretary general, Manolo de los Santos, is among those actively participating, and his organization has ties to the propaganda efforts of the Chinese Communist Party, as reported by Breitbart News Foundation.
Following the arrest of Nicolás Maduro in Caracas on January 3, access to the support that Venezuela’s socialist regime typically supplied to its Cuban allies has become quite limited, complicating the situation for Cuba’s struggling regime.
For years, the Venezuelan administration—first under Hugo Chávez and later Maduro—has provided essential resources like oil to the Cuban government, enabling it to maintain its authoritarian rule. In exchange, Cuba has offered Maduro and his associates assistance in establishing controlling systems in Venezuela.
During a press conference in Havana on Thursday, de los Santos mentioned that around $500,000 had been raised in the U.S. to purchase solar panels and other gear for Cuban hospitals. He argued that a U.S. “embargo” hindered their ability to directly buy and send this equipment.
“We are not only delivering crucial supplies, such as food and medicine for children with cancer, but we also believe our primary contribution is standing beside our people during this challenging time,” he stated. “Turning our backs on Cuba means turning our backs on humanity.”
Miguel Díaz Canel, Cuba’s nominal “president,” praised the leftist convoy’s arrival, calling their bravery “truly inspiring” in a social media update. He expressed gratitude for their willingness to support Cuba during tough times and their generosity in covering their travel costs along with the donations.
This situation unfolded a week after Díaz-Canel admitted that officials from the Cuban government had met U.S. government representatives. Shortly thereafter, he warned that any “foreign aggressors” would face strong resistance following Trump’s remarks suggesting imminent action regarding Cuba.
De los Santos, known for his ties to the Cuban regime and vocal opposition to the U.S., maintained that the Nuestra América convoy seeks “a genuine dialogue” between Cuba and the United States.
He expressed concern that despite ongoing discussions, the U.S. hasn’t significantly altered its approach toward Cuba, which is why they call for genuine dialogue. David Adler, leading the initiative and general manager of Progressive International, described the rally as the start of a large-scale global mobilization in defense of the Cuban people, citing concerns over potential escalated conflict between the U.S. and Cuba.
Colombian senator Clara López remarked that while their efforts may seem insufficient, it’s crucial to break the deadlock, advocating for a return to multilateralism as stated in the United Nations Charter. She criticized the unilateral sanctions affecting the Cuban population for over six decades.
Adler added that the name of the convoy draws inspiration from the notable work of José Martí, reinforcing the idea that this region belongs to its people, not to foreign powers.
