US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged those wanting change in Cuba to collaborate with the CIA. This follows President Donald Trump’s statement that the US would “take care of Cuba” after addressing Iran and sending Rubio to finalize an agreement. At a rally in Florida, Trump emphasized the urgency of action regarding Cuba.
Rubio, who is significant in shaping Cuba-related policy for Trump, encouraged individuals unhappy with the Cuban government to “seize this opportunity” for change through a discreet partnership with the CIA. No further details were provided on this partnership. The Trump administration has expressed its aim to alter Cuba’s communist regime, while a US oil blockade has severely impacted Cuba, leading to fuel shortages and blackouts due to its deteriorating infrastructure. The US embargo against Cuba has been in place for over 60 years.
Pressure on Havana has intensified since a US military raid in January targeting Venezuela’s then-president Nicolas Maduro. In response, Cuba’s foreign minister stated at the UN that Cuba remains open to dialogue with the US. UN rights experts have criticized the oil blockade as violating international law, and rights advocates claim the administration’s threats reflect an imperialist stance. Trump predicted an agreement with Cuba could be reached without the need for military force.
With information from Reuters
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