Messages from World Leaders Following the Death of Fidel Castro

World leaders have reacted to the death of Fidel Castro, the former leader of the Cuban Revolution. Barack Obama, the President of the United States, expressed condolences to the Castro family, adding that history will judge him. Donald Trump described Castro as a 'ruthless dictator' who suppressed his people for six decades. Obama stated that at this time of Castro's passing, the United States extends a hand of friendship to the Cuban people. He noted that he himself tried to move past the historical grievances between the two countries and work towards future cooperation based on shared interests. Trump, the President-elect, characterized Castro's legacy as one of execution squads, theft, unimaginable pain and suffering, poverty, and disregard for basic human rights. Mike Pence, Trump's Vice President, tweeted that 'the oppressive Castro is dead. A new hope has been born. We will stand with the oppressed people of Cuba for a free and democratic country.' Iranian President Hassan Rouhani referred to Castro as an 'unwavering fighter' and expressed condolences to the 'resilient government and people of Cuba and Latin America.' In a letter to Raul Castro, he wrote, 'The passing of your esteemed brother, Mr. Fidel Castro Ruz, has caused deep sorrow and regret.' Russian President Vladimir Putin stated, 'He and his comrades built a free and independent Cuba, became influential figures on the global stage, and impacted many people around the world. Castro was a true and sincere friend to the people of Russia.' Syrian President Bashar al-Assad described Cuba as his country's friend and noted that under Castro's leadership, Cuba managed to overcome strong and severe sanctions and became a beacon for the freedom of other peoples in South America and the world. Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that his country has lost a 'close friend and comrade.' He also praised Castro's efforts to establish communism in Cuba and other parts of the world. French President François Hollande expressed condolences over the death of an important global figure, welcomed the thaw in relations between Havana and Washington, and expressed concern over the human rights situation in that country. Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, stated that Castro was a historical figure of the last century and an embodiment of the Cuban Revolution. With his passing, the world has lost a man who was considered a hero by many... Castro will remain a revolutionary figure of the twentieth century, and history will judge his legacy. The Turkish Foreign Minister stated that Castro 'left a legacy of values and ideals that will enlighten the path for young generations in Cuba.' According to the Turkish Foreign Ministry, the efforts he dedicated his life to were respected among various political campaigns around the world and resonated not only in Cuba but globally. Fidel Castro, the leader of the Cuban Revolution, passed away last Friday at the age of 90, having stepped down from leadership. According to Castro's will, his body will be cremated. He held leadership in Cuba for nearly five decades.