The United States…Cuba…and the Embargo…
With the recent resignation of Cuba’s ailing 81 year old leader Fidel Castro, there has been a question of what comes next for this country which has been involved for so long in the embargo placed upon it by the United States. It is especially a question whether the situation will alter in any way, considering the next president has been officially appointed, and he happens to be Castro’s younger brother Raul Castro. Already, with his new-found powers as president, Raul has taken the initiative to appoint the top army generals to important political posts within the government. However, although it may seem as if these actions signify a harmful turn for the Cuban government, and the effects on their people, the effects of such officials in high political power may indeed create a positive impact.
“The army has over the last two decades moved from fighting wars in Africa to become Cuba’s most efficient institution with a big stake in the economy through a network of profitable businesses, and experts say it can serve as a model of reform.” —Anthony Boadle
Although it seemingly is “looking up” for the Cuban people, their government, and the role the government plays in their lives and in the lives of people around the world, I personally remain unchanged in my belief that Raul Castro will follow in the footsteps of his older brother. Although he may speak about positive changes for the people, I don’t believe that all of these ideas he brings forward are going to move anywhere beyond just that, ideas. I don’t mean to be a pessimist, but personally, I don’t feel that lifting the embargo on Cuba will change much for the better. I think the WHOLE reason why Raul Castro happened to come in to power after Fidel Castro, is because he is going to continue that which his brother started. I don’t feel as if Raul is planning on actually directing the country into a new direction, which could give the United States any reason to lift the embargo currently in place.
Girl-With-Kaleidoscope-Eyes 
Even if it looks like Raul wlil take Fidel’s path, isn’t this a good oppertunity to try to make change? What has the embargo done to improve the situation, and at what point to we get rid of it if not now? I can’t help but to think that this is a good change to better diplomatic ties.
Any step in the right direction is a steop we need to take! (haha)