Tensions between Cuba and the Venezuelan opposition mark a crisis in the Latin American region.

The recent exchange of statements between Cuba and Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has highlighted the tensions in the relationship between the two countries, in a context where politics and international perception play a crucial role. In a statement issued by the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Minrex), the Cuban government categorically denied Machado's accusations, who in an interview had pointed out the alleged influence of the island on the repressive methods used in Venezuela. Cuba, without directly mentioning Machado, described her claims as "fabrications" and a desperate attempt to hide the failure of opposition plans in the South American country. This type of rhetoric is common in the politics of both countries, where accusations and denials have become tools for defense and attack. Minrex emphasized that Cuba does not interfere in the politics of other countries and that its actions are guided by principles of sovereignty. The Cuban reaction comes at a time when tensions in Venezuela have reached critical levels. Support demonstrations for President Nicolás Maduro, backed by the Cuban government, have intensified following the elections on July 28, where the opposition claims that their candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, was the true winner. This conflict over electoral legitimacy has led to massive protests and an increase in repression, with thousands detained and an alarming number of deaths. Díaz-Canel's response to the opposition demonstrations in Venezuela reflects Cuba's commitment to Maduro's regime. This unconditional support has persisted over the years, partly due to the ideological closeness and historical ties between both governments. Many interpret this as a strategy to reinforce its own internal legitimacy and divert attention from the economic and social problems facing the island. The Cuban government has used the narrative of "imperialist aggression" to delegitimize criticisms of its role in Venezuela, claiming that the accusations stem from a desire by the United States to undermine its influence in the region. However, opposition voices within Venezuela, such as Machado's, continue to insist that Cuba has an active role in the repression of dissenters and in maintaining Maduro's regime. International observers have noted that the situation in Venezuela is deeply intertwined with Cuba's foreign policy. The island has been a key ally for Maduro, providing military support, intelligence, and advice, complicating the regional mediation efforts by other countries, including Brazil and Colombia. While these countries seek diplomatic solutions to the crisis, Cuba's stance and its support for Maduro hinder any attempts at consensus. Moreover, the controversy surrounding the elections and the lack of transparency from Venezuela's National Electoral Council have further fueled discontent. The election records, which the opposition claims support its version of events, have become a symbol of resistance and distrust towards the regime. This has created a tense atmosphere where truth and narrative are in constant conflict. The demonstrations and accusations between both governments reflect a political landscape in which polarization is increasingly evident. While the Cuban government clings to its narrative and criticizes its opponents, the Venezuelan opposition is increasingly seeking international support to challenge Maduro's legitimacy. This struggle not only affects Venezuela but has repercussions throughout the region, where other governments are closely watching the outcome of these events. Ultimately, the confrontation between Cuba and the Venezuelan opposition highlights the complexity of international relations in Latin America. At a time when the winds of change seem to be blowing in several nations, the persistence of authoritarian regimes and mutual support among them underscore the endurance of a politics that clings to the past, despite the voices calling for a different future.