Overview
- The Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces presented Rodríguez with a combat AKM and a replica at its headquarters on the Day of National Defense in the presence of President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
- The 79-year-old artist had written on his blog that he wanted an AKM and was willing to take up arms, stating, “Exijo mi AKM, si se lanzan… lo digo muy en serio.”
- Cuban authorities framed the award as recognition of his “patriotic disposition” to defend the country, with state television and official accounts broadcasting and promoting the event.
- The ceremony followed sharper statements from U.S. President Donald Trump about “taking” Cuba and Díaz-Canel’s vow that any external aggressor would face an “impregnable resistance.”
- Diplomatic contacts with Washington continue, including a Vatican-facilitated prisoner-release agreement, while Cuban officials stress that the island’s political system is not up for negotiation; coverage also reported a temporary firearm-carry permit issued to Rodríguez.