Cuban officials deny Castro privileges amid blackouts, sanctions defiance

Cuban officials, including Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez and Deputy Foreign Minister Fernández de Cossío, publicly denied that the Castro family enjoys privileges such as private jets or multiple houses, while asserting the regime will not yield to additional sanctions. The statements come amid widespread blackouts affecting officials as well as the public, signaling internal pressure and a defensive posture. This marks a rare public rebuttal of long-standing corruption allegations, likely aimed at domestic and international audiences.