In a recent development, both Russia and China have rejected the arrest warrant issued in Florida against Raúl Castro. However, Moscow has taken a step further by warning that social unrest in Cuba could potentially lead to a massive migration to neighboring countries, sparking a regional crisis.
The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its "categorical rejection" of the court order on Tuesday, labeling the accusations against the 95-year-old Castro as "groundless and fabricated." The ministry attributed these allegations to supposed revenge by the anti-Castro exile community in Miami, as reported by The Moscow Times.
Russia's foreign affairs department cautioned that escalating tensions might trigger social upheaval in Cuba, potentially leading to widespread migration to other countries in the region, thereby affecting their stability.
This warning from Russia comes amidst a severe economic and energy crisis in Cuba. The Unión Eléctrica (UNE) reported that on October 21, the country faced an anticipated power deficit of 1,933 megawatts, with only 1,017 MW available against a forecasted demand of 2,950 MW during peak consumption hours.
The situation is exacerbated by fuel shortages and deteriorating thermoelectric plants, while official annual inflation reached 28.44% in September, further increasing the cost of living. Additionally, water supply issues have worsened due to frequent blackouts.
The Russian government reiterated its support for Havana, extending wishes of health and strength to Raúl Castro, whom it described as a "friend of Russia."
China's Response to the Arrest Warrant
A day later, Mao Ning, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, offered a public defense of the former Cuban leader, portraying him as a revolutionary figure of "great international stature."
"China opposes the misuse of judicial measures to pressure Cuba," Mao stated during her Wednesday press briefing.
Beijing reinforced its support for Cuban sovereignty and demanded that the United States lift the embargo and other pressure tactics against the island.
The Arrest Warrant that Sparked Reactions
These responses follow the announcement by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier on Monday regarding a state arrest warrant for Raúl Castro, accusing him of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder.
The charges stem from the downing of two Brothers to the Rescue planes on February 24, 1996, which resulted in the deaths of Armando Alejandre Jr., Carlos Costa, Mario de la Peña, and Pablo Morales.
The warrant, signed by Judge Ariana Fajardo Orshan, is separate from a federal indictment issued in May against Castro and five other former Cuban military officials. These charges are still pending judicial review.
The Cuban government has also dismissed the arrest warrant, with Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez calling it an "infamous and futile act."
The reactions from Moscow and Beijing coincide with the upcoming annual vote at the UN General Assembly on the U.S. embargo against Cuba, scheduled for October 27 and 28. In 2025, the resolution introduced by Havana received 165 votes in favor, seven against, and 12 abstentions.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Raúl Castro Arrest Warrant
Why did Russia and China reject the arrest warrant against Raúl Castro?
Both countries view the warrant as politically motivated and a form of external pressure on Cuba. Russia called the accusations against Castro fabricated, while China criticized the use of judicial measures to pressure the island nation.
What could be the consequences of social unrest in Cuba, according to Russia?
Russia warned that social unrest could lead to a mass migration of Cubans to neighboring countries, which could destabilize the region.
What is the historical context of the charges against Raúl Castro?
The charges relate to the 1996 downing of two planes by the Cuban government, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, which led to accusations of conspiracy to commit murder.