The World Federation of Trade Unions salutes the heroic people of Cuba on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of the historic victory at Playa de Girón.
This decisive moment in April 1961, when the Cuban people defeated the mercenary invasion organized and supported by imperialist forces, remains a powerful symbol of resistance, sovereignty, and the right of every people to determine their own future free from external intervention. On the 18th of April, 1961, under the direct command of Fidel Castro, the revolutionary troops annihilated the invaders in just 66 hours of combat. Playa de Girón stands as the first great defeat of imperialism in Latin America and continues to inspire workers and peoples around the world in their struggle for dignity and social justice.
Today, 65 years later, Cuba continues to face unjust and illegal economic, commercial, and financial blockade measures, alongside ongoing political pressure and destabilization attempts. Despite these challenges, the Cuban people persist in defending their achievements in health, education, labor rights, and international solidarity.
The WFTU expresses its firm and unwavering solidarity with the Cuban working class and reaffirms its commitment to supporting their just struggle against all forms of aggression and coercion.
At the same time, the WFTU warmly welcomes the successful completion of the International Week of Solidarity with Cuba, which mobilized trade unions and progressive forces worldwide. This collective effort once again demonstrated the strength of internationalist solidarity and the growing global demand for an end to the blockade and respect for Cuba’s sovereignty.
The international trade union movement, united under the banner of the WFTU, will continue to stand side by side with Cuba, strengthening cooperation, solidarity actions, and joint struggles in defense of workers’ rights and the principles of social justice.
Long live the 65th anniversary of Playa de Girón!
Long live international solidarity!
Long live socialist Cuba!
