Rubio invites Cuban reformers to contact CIA
The State Department official directed islanders seeking change to establish a discrete partnership with the agency, a move accompanied by new sanctions on Cuba's state bank.
By Omar Bennett ·
Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Cubans who want to reshape their government to form a direct, quiet partnership with the Central Intelligence Agency.
The U.S. has been tightening its grip on the island economy for months to pressure the communist leadership. Last week, Washington announced new economic sanctions targeting Cuba's state-run bank, citing the institution's financial ties to Iran. These measures follow years of strict embargoes that have driven up prices for basic goods and shrunk access to medical care for many residents.
Rubio posted his appeal on X on Friday. He cited the "disappointment of failed promises, corruption, and the privileged lives of only a few" as reasons for citizens to act now. He urged readers to "seize this opportunity to create the change you desire through a discrete partnership with the CIA." The CIA quickly reposted the message in both English and Spanish. The agency also shared a video that outlined the specific steps for citizens to make initial contact with the intelligence agency.
President Trump reinforced the administration's posture at a campaign rally in South Florida on the same day. He linked the pressure on Cuba to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. "We'll take care of Cuba on our way back from Iran," Trump said, referring to U.S. Navy warships currently deployed near the Strait of Hormuz. He described a scenario where one of those ships would stop approximately 50 yards off the Cuban coast. He then said Rubio would be sent in to "finish up the deal."
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla responded to the rhetoric on X on Friday. He stated that the government rejects any threats stemming from U.S. ambitions toward the island. He noted that while the coastline features beautiful beaches, it is also rugged and inhospitable to those arriving with hostile intentions and a desire for domination.
The next step in the diplomatic and military sequence involves the U.S. Navy vessels moving from the Strait of Hormuz region. Rubio is scheduled to lead negotiations if the ships reach the designated 50-yard standoff point off the Cuban coast.
Source: CBS News
