NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedSeptember 6, 2026Miami-Dade
Raúl Castro makes public appearance following reports of hospitalization
Raúl Castro appeared on state television in Cuba on Saturday, marking his first public sighting since unofficial reports suggested he had been hospitalized following a reported stroke. The 95-year-old former president was shown attending a commemorative event for the Ministry of the Interior alongside current President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The appearance serves as a visual response to recent speculation regarding the health and status of a former long-term head of state who remains a symbolic figure in the Cuban government.
Key Facts
- Raúl Castro appeared on Cuban state television on Saturday at a 65th-anniversary event for the Ministry of the Interior.
- The appearance follows unofficial reports from Diario Las Américas claiming Castro suffered a stroke.
- Castro is 95 years old and holds the rank of 'General of the Army' while serving as a deputy in the National Assembly.
- Castro formally retired from his leadership roles in April 2021.
- A U.S. federal grand jury in Miami indicted Castro on April 23 for his role in the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft.
- The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed charges on May 20, including conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens and murder.
- Castro did not attend the official commemoration of the July 26, 1953, Moncada barracks attack.
- Castro served as President of Cuba from 2008 to 2018.
Who's Mentioned
organizationU.S. Department of Justice“Federal agency that unsealed charges against Castro in 2024.”personMiguel Díaz-Canel“Current President of Cuba.”organizationDiario Las Américas“Miami-based newspaper that reported on Castro's health.”organizationHermanos al Rescate“Group whose members were killed in a 1996 military attack ordered by Castro.”personAndy Gomez“Analyst for Local 10 News.”personRaúl Castro“Former President of Cuba and current General of the Army.”