[Beef]

Fidel Castro has stepped down as President of Cuba, where he has ruled since 1959.

Wonder how this will affect US/Cuba relations?

[ComfortEagle]

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/americas/0...index.html

HAVANA, Cuba (CNN) -- Fidel Castro announced his resignation as president of Cuba and commander in chief of Cuba's military Tuesday, according to a letter published in the state-run newspaper, Granma.

The resignation ends nearly a half-century of iron-fisted rule that inspired revolutionaries but frustrated 10 U.S. presidents.

Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte said the U.S. embargo on Cuba will not be lifted in the near term.

Castro revealed his plans without notice by publishing a letter in the middle of the night in state-run newspaper Granma.

"I will not aspire to, nor will I accept the position of president of the council of state and commander in chief," Castro wrote. "I wish only to fight as a soldier of ideas. ... Perhaps my voice will be heard."

President Bush said Castro's decision ought to spark "a democratic transition" for Cuba.

[*Central_Cheer_Chick]

Wow, was that a 49 year run?? Why not go another year?

[vundy33]

Hopefully his brother doesn't take over, he's got the same views as Fidel. I think it's his brother isn't it?