The flame of 26 July continues to light the way

The flame of 26 July continues to light the way

Statement by the Communist Party of Turkey (TKP) Central Committee on the anniversary of the assault on the Moncada Barracks.

On 26 July 1953, the assault on the Moncada Barracks by 135 young Cuban revolutionaries became the symbol of the Cuban people's uprising against the Batista dictatorship, imperialist domination and exploitation. The city of Santiago de Cuba, home to the Moncada Barracks, had already witnessed the first flame of rebellion against Spanish colonial rule. On the centenary of José Martí's birth, the young revolutionaries marched on Moncada. They sought to complete the struggle for independence he had begun. Their action marked the beginning of a new era. It united Cuba's struggle for national liberation with the cause of socialism.

The assault on the Moncada Barracks by Fidel Castro and his comrades did not achieve their immediate objective, but the first spark of one of the twentieth century's finest revolutions had already been struck. The flame lit at Moncada had already taken root in the hearts of the Cuban people. Batista's prisons failed to crush the determination of the revolutionary leadership. That determination grew stronger, reorganised in the Sierra Maestra, spread across the country and led Cuba to the triumph of the Revolution on 1 January 1959.

Today, Cuba faces the harsh consequences of the imperialist blockade while waging a difficult and distinctive struggle. The spirit of 26 July remains its greatest source of strength. Its enduring lesson is clear: no matter how severe the conditions, the creative power and determination of the people can overcome even the darkest moments. In this sense, the legacy of 26 July belongs not only to the Cuban people; it belongs to every revolutionary who stands with the Cuban people, fights US imperialism and works to ignite the flame of revolution at home.

On the National Day of Rebellion, we honor the revolutionary vanguard cardres who lit the path to the Cuban Revolution. We salute the people of Cuba as they courageously defend their lives, their sovereignty and their Revolution against imperialist barbarism.

Long live 26 July!

Long live the Cuban Revolution!

Long live socialism!