Cuban musician Silvio Rodríguez receives assault rifle from government in symbolic defense gesture

Cuban singer-songwriter Silvio Rodríguez was presented with an AKM assault rifle by the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces during a ceremony attended by President Miguel Díaz-Canel. The 79-year-old musician had publicly requested the weapon days earlier through his blog, stating he would use it to defend Cuba against potential U.S. aggression. The presentation was described as recognition of Rodríguez's patriotic willingness to take up arms. This occurred amid heightened tensions between Cuba and the United States, with recent statements from U.S. officials about the island nation. Cuba confirmed ongoing diplomatic talks with Washington while maintaining its defensive posture.