“The traditional stand adopted by the Cuban Revolution, which was always opposed to any action that could jeopardize the life of civilians, is well known.”
- August 13, 1926 – November 25, 2016
- Cuban
- Revolutionary, Prime Minister and President of Cuba, Communist Leader
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Quote
“The traditional stand adopted by the Cuban Revolution, which was always opposed to any action that could jeopardize the life of civilians, is well known.”
Explanation
This quote affirms Fidel Castro’s assertion of the moral principles guiding the Cuban Revolution, particularly its stance on the protection of civilian life in conflict. By stating that the revolution was “always opposed to any action that could jeopardize the life of civilians,” Castro emphasizes a commitment to ethical conduct even in the midst of revolutionary struggle or international tension. This position serves both as a defense of Cuba’s historical actions and as a rebuttal to critics who have accused the revolution of supporting violence or terrorism.
Historically, Castro and the Cuban leadership sought to distinguish their revolutionary warfare—such as the guerrilla campaign against Batista—from indiscriminate violence. They often emphasized that legitimate revolutionary struggle must uphold moral standards, particularly in contrast to state terrorism or imperial aggression that, in their view, routinely targeted civilians. This stance also extended to Cuba’s foreign policy, where support for liberation movements was, according to official claims, always conditioned by respect for civilian lives and national sovereignty.
In the modern context, the quote highlights the enduring relevance of civilian protection as a foundational norm in both warfare and diplomacy. It reflects a view that revolutionary legitimacy depends not just on goals, but on means, and that true justice cannot be achieved through the sacrifice of innocent lives. Castro’s words serve as a reminder that ethical integrity must remain central to any political or military action, especially in an age where civilian casualties and humanitarian concerns are central to global debate.
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