Lawyer and human rights defender Pablo de la Vega, a member of the Ecuadorian Coordinator of Friendship and Solidarity with Cuba, discussed the reality of the island—which he recently visited—with members of the organization *Mujeres de Frente* (Women at the Forefront).

De la Vega argued that the situation in Cuba can be interpreted as a form of defensive warfare against the blockade Washington has imposed on the Caribbean nation for decades.

The speaker addressed the difficulties Cuba is currently facing, particularly fuel shortages and power outages, as well as their impact on transportation, water supply, education, and daily life.

De la Vega recounted that during his stay in Havana, he encountered diverse views among the population, noting the presence of both those wishing to emigrate and those determined to remain in Cuba.

De la Vega devoted time to discussing Fidel Castro’s thought—ahead of the centenary of his birth—and highlighted the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution’s influence on the development of various sectors on the island, such as sports, healthcare, science, and education.

De la Vega, who condemned recent U.S. sanctions against solidarity organizations and their leaders, asserted, “The blockade is deeply political and ideological in nature. Cuba is not a military threat, despite attempts to sell us that idea.”

He emphasized that Cuba’s only threat is its example: “remaining a dignified, sovereign, and joyful people who find solutions despite the harsh difficulties they face.”

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