Cubans Rally at US Embassy After Raul Castro Indictment

Thousands of Cubans gathered early Friday, May 22, 2026, outside the U.S. embassy in Havana to protest a U.S. decision to indict former Cuban president Raul Castro over the downing of two civilian airplanes 30 years ago. Cuban officials said the case has sharpened tensions between Havana and Washington. The pro-government rally began shortly after sunrise along Havana’s waterfront, within sight of the U.S. diplomatic mission.

Cuban authorities and state-aligned groups mobilized support for Castro during the week, portraying the indictment as politically motivated. Officials described the allegations as “spurious” and said Washington was using the case to justify pressure on the island under the administration of President Donald Trump.

President Miguel Diaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero attended the demonstration, along with several members of Castro’s family, including his daughter Mariela Castro, son Alejandro Castro, and grandson Raúl Rodríguez Castro. Castro, 94, did not appear at the event.

Participants waved Cuban flags and chanted slogans including “Viva Raul!” and “Patria o Muerte (Homeland or Death)!” The rally lasted nearly an hour on the seafront promenade, with the sea calm behind the crowd.

Castro message read to crowd

Lawmaker Gerardo Hernández, described by Cuban authorities as a national hero and former spy, relayed a message he said came from Castro. Hernández quoted Castro as thanking Cubans and supporters abroad for their solidarity.

“As long as I live, I will remain at the forefront of the Revolution, with one foot in the stirrup,” Hernández quoted Castro as saying.

Rodríguez Castro appearance draws attention

Rodríguez Castro’s presence at the protest also stood out because he reportedly met last week with CIA Director John Ratcliffe during a rare visit by a U.S. intelligence chief to Havana. The source described Rodríguez Castro as someone who often serves as his grandfather’s bodyguard.

The indictment and the Cuban government’s response have added to broader strains in U.S.-Cuba relations. Further U.S. and Cuban statements could shape whether the dispute escalates or gives way to renewed diplomatic contact in the days ahead.