Ramiro Valdés, historic commander of Cuban revolution, dies at 94

Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, a pivotal figure in the Cuban revolution and currently serving as vice prime minister, has died at the age of 94. State media announced his passing on Sunday in Havana, marking the end of a long and influential career in Cuban politics and military history.

Valdés was a prominent member of the revolutionary movement, participating in the historic 1953 assault on the Moncada Barracks led by Fidel Castro. He later joined the Rebel Army in the Sierra Maestra, fighting alongside Castro and Ernesto Che Guevara. His involvement in these key events cemented his status as one of the revolution's founding commanders.

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With deep sorrow, the leadership of the Party, the State, and the Government communicate to our people that in the early hours of this Sunday, June 21, the historic Commander of the Revolution Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, Hero of the Republic of Cuba and of Labor, who treasures a brilliant and extraordinary sheet of services to the homeland, has passed away.

State media reports emphasized Valdés's "brilliant and extraordinary sheet of services to the homeland" and described him as "deserving of the respect and admiration of the people of Cuba for his dedication and proven loyalty to the revolutionary cause." His long career spanned decades of Cuban history, from the revolutionary struggle to the post-revolution government.

His death leaves a significant void in Cuba's political landscape, as he was one of the last surviving leaders of the generation that overthrew the Batista regime. Valdés held various important positions throughout his life, consistently remaining a loyal supporter of the Cuban revolution.

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deserving of the respect and admiration of the people of Cuba for his dedication and proven loyalty to the revolutionary cause.