>> DONT LUMP CUBA IN WITH THE PRETENDERS SUCH AS CHINA OR, PREVIOUSLY, THE USSR.
Ok, I admit it. I've been guilty of this generalization, because I've never looked carefully into the situation in Cuba (which I shall do). This assertation of your would indeed explain why the US is so cozy with China and still so afraid of Cuba!
Who's got some links to investigate on the Cuba situation, with a mature and honest view?