Revolution Square is the political stage of revolutionary Cuba.<br />Into this charged atmosphere on Sunday came Pope Francis, celebrating an outdoor Mass attended by President Raúl Castro, the leadership of his Communist government and tens of thousands of Cubans.<br />For those hoping Francis would speak about political freedom during his visit here, the moment seemed ripe.<br />And Francis did speak about politics.<br />Colombian politics.<br />He encouraged that country's peace talks.<br />As the first Latin American pope, Francis is enormously influential in his native region, which has raised expectations and pressures that he will wade into regional politics.<br />His role in brokering the diplomatic breakthrough between Cuba and the United States has only raised his credibility.<br />Yet he is careful to avoid seeming too political and is being especially careful in navigating the politics of Cuba.<br />This cautiousness has frustrated some Cuban dissidents who want a public meeting with the pope.
