On Tuesday, the Colombian news channel Red Mass aired an interview with Sandro Castro, the grandson of Cuba’s former communist dictator Fidel Castro. He stated that he does not have close contacts with his great-uncle, dictator Raul Castro.
Sandro acknowledged the disintegration of Cuba and said that change is needed to address the country’s instability, yet he believes the communist regime should remain intact. He avoided providing a direct answer on whether Cuba’s “president,” Miguel Díaz Canel, should step down, mentioning instead a lack of electricity affecting his ability to respond.
During the Red Mass interview, he claimed that, despite his social media portrayals of a lavish lifestyle, he lives a life without privilege in Cuba. He also shared his views on American politics, labeling President Donald Trump as “unpredictable.” Sandro humorously suggested that he would offer Trump a Cuba libre cocktail and chat about U.S.-Cuba relations.
Sandro, who is known for his extravagant lifestyle, claims to be an “influencer” with over 158,000 followers on his Instagram account. Professionally, he contributes to an EFE catering business that services the regime’s elite in Havana.
In a recent video, which he posted on Monday, Sandro commented on the current state of Cuba, saying it is a dark time for the island and expressing hope that healing will come. He emphasized a need for unity among Cubans and encouraged them not to lose faith or hope.
In another segment of the Red Mass interview, he was introduced as an “influencer” and “digital entrepreneur” speaking from his upscale Havana apartment. He acknowledged that many Cubans wish to escape communism for capitalism but brushed off any hatred towards the atrocities committed by his grandfather as counterproductive.
When asked if there was concern among Raul Castro’s circle regarding the regime’s future, he noted that he has distanced himself from such matters, focusing instead on his personal life.
“I’m occupied with my work and personal challenges. I can’t comment on it; to do so would be dishonest,” he explained.
Sandro hinted at some criticism towards Cuba’s bureaucracy, advocating for a more open economy while not directly linking it to political change or the removal of his family from power.
“I won’t advocate for any specific replacements. It’s important we enhance not just the government itself, but the underlying model as well, addressing economic reforms,” he stated.
He expressed regret over the loss of values such as loyalty and unity among Cubans, which he attributes to the current situation as well as some of the “legacies” from his grandfather’s regime, like healthcare and sports.
Towards the end of the interview, when asked whether he supports the removal of Díaz-Canel, he stalled on the question and stated he was running out of electricity, although he did express concern over Trump’s comments implying military action towards Cuba.
“Trump is unpredictable,” he said, indicating that his shifting stances could be taken as threats, if not outright war declarations.
When asked what he would offer Trump if they were side by side, he shared he would give him a Cuba Libre or a mojito, hoping to introduce the American president to a true understanding of Cuba.
“No aggression, just peace. I want him to really experience Cuba,” he said, describing aspects of Cuban culture like dancing, neighborhood visits, and enjoying cigars.
The interviewer pointed out the stark contrast between Sandro’s glamorous online persona and the hardships faced by most Cubans. Sandro claimed that his content, while comedic, serves to critique the regime and address ongoing issues in Cuba.
“Obviously, things aren’t right. My influencer work may be humorous, but it’s also a subtle critique,” he remarked, distinguishing his role from more political commentary.
Despite the interviewer noting his exceptional ability to avoid backlash for speaking out, Sandro insisted that he does not enjoy any special privileges. “I have no immunity. My content isn’t political,” he reiterated, though he acknowledged a subtle criticism in his work. “I respect the government; that’s the reality here.”
“I see myself as a regular guy, and I’m proud of being fully Cuban,” he concluded.
