According to the author, how has the Patriot Act helped protect the nation

It has given the government more power to investigate and prosecute acts of terror.

Explanation:

newly independent countries of the former ussr

so, based on the research i've done. the u.s. government were always on a wild goose chase just to take down castro. he then retired his trone to his brother raul in 2008 due to some health issues. so it's obvious your answer would be:

castro had no allies from which he could receive aid.

hope this and have a fantastic day!

                                                    -wolfiewolffromsketch