In an exclusive interview, renowned Cuban author Leonardo Padura reflects on the uncertainty gripping his country under mounting pressure from Washington.
Padura, considered the most widely read Cuban writer globally, sat down with AFP at the Cervantes Institute in Paris while promoting the French edition of his book "Going to Havana".
Cuba, under a US embargo since 1962, faces a profound economic crisis worsened by an energy blockade imposed by Washington since January.
Gas shortages and blackouts are straining Cubans, including 70-year-old Padura, who was initially reticent to discuss the situation in his country and hometown Havana.
"In Cuba, it doesn't matter if your economic situation allows you to have a different relationship with reality. Reality doesn't knock, it opens the door and barges into your house," he said.
Despite the "complicated" living conditions, Padura wouldn't live anywhere else, with Havana being a consistent muse despite the challenges.
He acknowledged his "fortunate" financial situation compared to others, but expressed concerns about the future, saying "the future is a huge question mark for everyone, and uncertainty is universal."
Padura fears Washington could launch a military operation, or even bombings, the "collateral damage" of which would be "terrible".
