Raúl Castro, the former president of Cuba, made a notable public appearance during his 95th birthday celebration at Havana's Ministry of Interior, marking his first since the U.S. indicted him for his alleged role in the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft. The event, attended by senior officials and military commanders, served as a platform for Cuba's socialist government to demonstrate unity and defiance against increasing U.S. pressures. President Miguel Díaz-Canel delivered a tribute to Castro, praising his 'heroism and dignity' and warning of a 'decisive and resolute battle' if the U.S. pursued its threats to invade. This gathering highlighted Castro's significant political influence despite his official retirement in April 2021. The indictment, which charges Castro with murder, has escalated tensions as the Trump administration continues to impose restrictions on Cuba, exacerbating the island's ongoing struggles with fuel shortages and public health emergencies. Díaz-Canel's statement, 'Raúl is Cuba, and Cuba is untouchable,' reflects the government's effort to rally national solidarity in the face of external pressures.