Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, the nephew and one-time bodyguard of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, is emerging as an unexpected figure in contacts between the US and Cuba, at a time of high tension between the two countries.
Nicknamed “The Crab” because of a physical characteristic he was born with, Rodríguez Castro spent more than a decade at his grandfather’s side, acting as a bodyguard and gateway to one of the most powerful figures in Cuba. He was constantly at his side at international meetings and public appearances, often coordinating communications and security.
Although he holds no official public role, he is considered an influential figure within the inner circle of power. His name is rarely mentioned in Cuban state media, and his profile has remained largely behind the scenes.
According to reports, at a time when US-Cuba relations are at their most tense, Rodríguez Castro is emerging from the shadows to take on a mediating role with the Trump administration, which has sought to challenge the traditional power structures on the island.
He is a colonel in the Ministry of the Interior and enjoys a lifestyle that exceeds that of a military officer, often appearing in luxurious settings in Havana. Videos published on social media show him on private yachts and in elite settings, a reality far removed from the daily lives of most Cubans.
His family members have stated that he supports positive changes for the country, while remaining a figure loyal to his grandfather and the power structure.
His new role as a channel of communication with the US represents an unusual development, reflecting new dynamics within the Cuban elite and efforts to manage international pressure at a critical moment.
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