Hundreds of thousands of Cubans marched in May Day rallies across the island Thursday, demonstrating support for the government amid a grueling economic downturn and increased pressure from the US government.
Organizers estimated millions participated nationwide, with large crowds gathering in Havana's Revolution Square for the traditional annual event. The turnout comes as the country navigates deep economic challenges, including scarcity of basic goods and power outages.
Cuba stages May Day rallies occurred against a backdrop of intensified US sanctions policy, which Cuba's government blames for the economic contraction. The US has maintained a decades-old trade embargo against the island.
Former President Raul Castro, President and First Secretary of the Communist Party Miguel Diaz-Canel, and former Vice President Jose Ramon Machado watched the main rally in the capital. Diaz-Canel had urged residents to attend as a show of unity.
Cuban president praises attendance at the parades. On social media, he commented that the attendance, even in a difficult moment under external pressure, showed the strength of the people.
US policy towards the island has drawn criticism from Cuban officials. The foreign ministry recently criticized US Chief of Mission Mike Hammer, accusing him of fostering "subversion." Authorities also arrested dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer following visits from foreign diplomats.
The Trump administration added Cuba back to the list of state sponsors of terrorism in January 2025 and has extended visa restrictions targeting individuals contracting the services of Cuban medical brigades. US officials like US Secretary of State Marco Rubio have signaled a tougher stance.
Mauricio Claver-Carone, the US special envoy for Latin America, has suggested new sanctions are under preparation and speculated about a potential change in government on the island.
Ulises Guilarte de Nacimiento, president of the Cuban Federation of Workers, said the May Day celebration in Cuba demonstrated the people's respect for their revolution. The General Secretary of the Cuban Workers Central, Ulises Guilarte de Nacimiento, said the event occurred amid a dangerous imperialist offensive seeking to redesign the international system.
Bruno Rodriguez, the Secretary of State, stated the marches were a demonstration of patriotism and support for the revolution and socialism, demanding an end to the "genocidal bloc" impacting the national economy.
