It seems that Cuban blogger Yoani Sanchez (author of Havana Real) really has the Cuban government spooked. What began recently with a leaked video of a Cuban cyber intelligence expert explaining the dangers of social networks used by counter-revolutionary elements like Sanchez has escalated into full on character assasination.

Instead of publicly pretending like she doesn’t exist, the Cuban government singled Sanchez out for waging “cyber war” and “demonizing” socialism in a documentary series titled “Cuba’s Reasons,” according to this report by Sam Jones in the Guardian. It appears the Castro regime has shifted tactics and has decided to single her out, perhaps in the hopes that by being publicly ostracized, Sanchez will tone down her criticisms.

In describing cyberwar as a “new form of invasion that has originated in the developed world,” the Cuban government unintentionally lends credence to one of Yoani’s regular complaints about the absurd inefficiencies of life on the island. After all, is Cuba not “developed”? Wouldn’t admitting that it isn’t mean accepting the criticisms of people like Sanchez? But, I digress.

As Jones mentions, the renewed public pressure on Sanchez may signal a warning to her, especially in light of the recent conviction of US AID contractor Alan Gross. It’s probably also meant to remind her of the real physical threats and abuse she has endured as a vocal critic of the government through her blog, Generation Y.

Jones doesn’t mention this, but the timing is also curious. In mid April, the Communist Party Congress–the first in over a decade–is set to take place in Havana. If the Castro regime wants to marginalize Sanchez, why draw more attention to her now? Do they think she’ll shy away from overtures from the international press in town for the Congress?

If her tweets in reaction to “Cuba’s Reasons” are any indication of her future attitude, she’s not likely to get quiet any time soon:

“I am so happy. Finally the alternative blogosphere on official television, although it’s to insult us.”

“They don’t know what they’ve done! Pandora’s Box has been smashed open!”

“I can’t keep tweeting all the texts of support…There are too many of them and I have only 10 fingers!”