Former Cuban President Raúl Castro reappeared in public on Saturday at a military event that marked the anniversary of an army branch tasked with protecting the nation's top leaders. The 95-year-old was seen in his customary olive-green military uniform.
Cuban state television aired footage showing Castro alongside his bodyguard and grandson, Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro. This marks his first public appearance since August 13. The broadcast also noted that Castro's grandson had participated in talks with the United States earlier this year.
These discussions with U.S. officials reportedly took place following the imposition of an oil and financial blockade by the U.S. on Cuba, which has been in place since January. While authorities from both nations have acknowledged the talks, no agenda or specific details have been released. U.S. sanctions have reportedly increased in recent months.
Castro, who no longer holds formal positions in the government or the Communist Party, makes infrequent public appearances. Rumors regarding his health have circulated, particularly after his absence from a July rally commemorating a significant anniversary of the Cuban revolution—an event he had not missed in decades.
In June, the U.S. Department of Justice filed murder charges against Castro in connection with the 1996 downing of aircraft belonging to an anti-Castro organization. The planes had entered Cuban airspace as part of a campaign aimed at tightening sanctions and pressuring for political change on the island.
During Saturday's ceremony, Cuban television showed Castro walking with high-ranking military officials and being seated in the front row. He stood to accept a commemorative certificate and greet attendees. President Miguel Díaz-Canel of Cuba posted on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday morning, calling it an honor to participate alongside Army General Raúl Castro in the ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of the Personal Security Directorate. He included photos of himself with Castro from the event.
The U.S. energy blockade has reportedly exacerbated Cuba's five-year economic crisis, significantly impacting the nation's population and economy, including prolonged blackouts.