Cuba's President Says 'We Would Die' to Defend Against U.S. Invasion President Miguel Díaz-Canel of Cuba reaffirmed his government’s stance during a televised interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker, stating that the country would resist any U.S. military aggression with “fighting, struggle, and even the willingness to die” if necessary. Díaz-Canel, who has been in power since 2018, emphasized that Cuba’s leadership remains unyielding despite mounting pressure from the Trump administration, which has criticized the nation’s political system and economic policies. The interview, conducted in Havana, marked Díaz-Canel’s first major appearance on an American broadcast platform. Díaz-Canel condemned the U.S. for its alleged intent to launch a “military aggression” against Cuba, warning that such an action would have “costs” for both nations and the broader region. He invoked Cuba’s national anthem, which includes the phrase “Dying for the homeland is to live,” to underscore his resolve. “Before making that decision, which is so irrational, there is a logic, that is, the logic of dialogue,” he said, stressing the need for “discussions, debates, and agreements” to avoid confrontation. Welker pressed Díaz-Canel on whether Cuba would address U.S. demands, including the release of political prisoners, scheduling multiparty elections, and recognizing unions and a free press. Díaz-Canel rejected these as “extensively manipulated” issues, asserting that Cuba’s political system is non-negotiable. When specifically asked about the case of Cuban rapper Maykel Osorbo, a Latin Grammy winner imprisoned since 2021 for writing a protest song during the pandemic, Díaz-Canel denied any obligation to release political prisoners.#cuba #nbc_news #miguel_diazcanel #kristen_welker #amnesty_international
