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🇳🇮 Nicaragua /Culture & Society

Ramiro Valdés, Historic Cuban Revolution Commander, Dies at 94

From Confidencial · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Outcome reported
  • Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, a historic commander of the Cuban Revolution, has died at the age of 94.
  • Valdés was a key figure in the revolution, participating in pivotal events like the Moncada Barracks assault and fighting in the Sierra Maestra.
  • Cuban leaders, including President Miguel Díaz-Canel and Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez, expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to his loyalty and dedication to the revolutionary cause.

Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, one of the most prominent historical figures of the Cuban Revolution, passed away on Sunday in Havana at the age of 94. State media announced his death, describing him as a hero of the Republic of Cuba and a dedicated servant to the nation.

With deep sorrow, the leadership of the Party, the State, and the Government inform our people that on Sunday morning, the historic Commander of the Revolution Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, Hero of the Republic of Cuba and of Labor, who holds a brilliant and extraordinary record of service to the Homeland, passed away.

— CubadebateOfficial announcement of Ramiro Valdés's death.

Valdés played a crucial role throughout the revolutionary period. He was part of the Granma expedition and participated in the 1953 assault on the Moncada Barracks, a foundational event in the uprising against the Fulgencio Batista regime. He later joined the Rebel Army, fighting alongside Fidel Castro and Ernesto 'Che' Guevara in the Sierra Maestra mountains.

The physical departure of the Commander of the Revolution, Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, hurts deeply, like that of a father. That is how I always wanted and respected him. That is how I will remember his support and advice, his discreet collaboration and exemplary dedication to the service of the Homeland.

— Miguel Díaz-CanelCuban President's message of condolence.

His lifelong commitment to the revolutionary cause earned him widespread respect and admiration. President Miguel Díaz-Canel conveyed his profound grief, remembering Valdés as a father figure whose support, counsel, and unwavering dedication to Cuba were exemplary. Díaz-Canel highlighted Valdés's absolute fidelity to Fidel and Raúl Castro and his defense of the revolution's core principles.

Until victory forever, Commander!

— Miguel Díaz-CanelConcluding his message of condolence.

Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez also expressed deep sorrow, honoring Valdés as a hero of key revolutionary moments and a leader distinguished by his commitment to Cuba and its leaders. The passing of Valdés marks the end of an era for the Cuban Revolution, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty and service.

His commitment to the Homeland, to Fidel and to Raúl Castro made him one of the most selfless, outstanding, and recognized leaders of the Cuban Revolution.

— Bruno RodríguezCuba's Foreign Minister paying tribute to Valdés.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Confidencial in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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