Ramiro Valdes, a prominent figure in Cuba’s revolutionary history and a close ally of Fidel Castro, died at the age of 94, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced on Sunday. The cause of death was not disclosed.

Valdes, born on April 28, 1932, played a significant role in the Cuban Revolution. At 21, he participated in the 1953 assault on the Moncada barracks, a pivotal event that marked the beginning of the armed uprising against the government of then-dictator Fulgencio Batista. The attack ultimately failed, but it became a symbolic moment for the revolutionary movement.

Following the triumph of Castro’s forces in 1959, Valdes held various influential positions within the Cuban government. He was a member of the Political Bureau of the Cuban Communist Party, the highest decision-making body, until his departure from the role in 2019. Throughout his career, Valdes was honored with titles such as “Hero of the Republic” and “Commander of the Revolution,” reflecting his stature within the regime.

President Diaz-Canel expressed his sorrow on social media, describing Valdes’ passing as a deeply painful loss, “like that of a father.” Valdes remained a respected figure among Cuba’s leadership, having been involved in the country’s political landscape for more than six decades.

As one of the earliest collaborators with Fidel Castro, Valdes’ life was closely intertwined with the revolutionary movement that shaped modern Cuba. His death marks the passing of a generation that played a foundational role in the country’s history since the mid-20th century.