Speaking at the ceremony, Cuba’s ambassador to Chile, Oscar Cornelio Oliva, noted that July 26 is celebrated as the Day of National Rebellion because that action was the spark that awakened popular consciousness and launched the struggle that would end up in the triumph of January 1, 1959.

  He remembered that, during the trial following the Moncada attack, Fidel undertook his own defense; the resulting statement—later published as the book *History Will Absolve Me*—served as the social and political program of the Revolution.

  The diplomat stated that many liberation movements, such as those in Africa during the 1960s, were inspired by the struggle led by Fidel in the Sierra Maestra mountains.

  “Because they cannot forgive us for that rebellion, they wage war against us,” the ambassador declared. He denounced the multidimensional nature of U.S. aggression against Cuba, citing first and foremost the economic, commercial, and financial blockade, which has caused multi-million dollar losses affecting every sector.

  Compounding this are the oil embargo, executive orders expanding sanctions, a psychological campaign of lies and media manipulation, and threats of military aggression against the island.

  In the face of this, Cuba is preparing its defense through the “War of the Entire People” strategy, while remaining open to dialogue with the United States based on equality and respect—provided there is no infringement upon its sovereignty or political system.

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