MADRID, Spain (AP):

Cuban opposition groups downplayed Fidel Castro's resignation yesterday, saying they foresaw no significant change soon under a government run by his brother.

Western leaders, however, gave the news a cautious welcome, saying it heralded an opportunity for reform after decades of rule under Castro in the western hemisphere's only communist state.

The Spanish-Cuban Foundation, a Madrid-based organisation that works to aid Cuban exiles in Europe and dissidents back home, said the announcement simply formalises the status quo: Raul Castro, 76, is now boss.

"All scenarios are open. Anything can happen. But as of today, nothing substantial has changed in Cuba," said spokesman Orlando Fondevila, a Cuban who fled his country 11 years ago.