Cuba’s political leaders and a large number of citizens gathered in the central city of Siglo XXVI, Xiego de Avila, on July 26th to commemorate “7·26 National Uprising Day”.
During the commemorative event, Cuban Prime Minister Raúl Castro emphasized that Cuba would not succumb to the United States’ hostile policies towards it. He vowed to overcome numerous challenges and spare no effort to defend the country’s dignity.
In his speech at the celebration, Castro stated, “7·26 National Uprising Day” is an important symbol of the Cuban people’s struggle for true independence. This beginning has transformed Cuba into a prosperous, sustainable, and sovereign socialist state. However, the interference from the United States has never ceased, especially the economic embargo imposed nearly 63 years ago, which has now spread to various areas of Cuba. At the same time, Cuba will face and solve its current problems through its own efforts and wisdom, particularly concerning energy issues, to minimize the impact on the country’s economy and people’s lives.
Castro criticized the US government for its long-term hostile policy towards Cuba, constructing a cruel blockade system comparable to “siege warfare”, aiming to strangle Cuba economically and stir up the people’s despair and discontent. Despite the unprecedented challenges facing Cuba today, the Cuban people remain as strong and optimistic as they were during the revolutionary era, firmly believing victory will eventually come. “Cubans will not surrender, will not submit, nor will they kneel to anyone.”
On July 26, 1953, Fidel Castro, former leader of Cuba, led over 100 young people to the second largest military stronghold of the Batista dictatorship – the Moncada Barracks, launching the first shot in the Cuban revolution against the American-backed dictatorship. Although the uprising ended in failure, it awakened the Cuban people. Hence, “7·26 National Uprising Day” has become one of Cuba’s most significant commemorative days. (CCTV News)