Rubio Asks Cubans to Work With CIA for Change
The Secretary of State is inviting Cubans who want a different future to reach out to the spy agency, while new sanctions and military posturing escalate pressure on Havana.
By Malcolm Davis ·
If you are living in Cuba and looking for a different future, the top American diplomat is telling you who to call. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a public invitation for Cubans who want to see change in their country to work quietly with the Central Intelligence Agency. This request is part of a broader push by the current administration to alter the Cuban government.
Rubio shared the message on social media on Friday. He addressed people who are tired of failed promises and corruption that has benefited only a few. He asked those wanting change to seize the moment through a discrete partnership with the CIA.
The intelligence agency quickly amplified the request. The CIA reposted the message and shared a version in Spanish. Along with the text, a video was released that outlines the specific steps for contacting the agency.
The appeal arrives during a period of intense economic strain for ordinary Cubans on the island. The United States maintains a strict embargo and sanctions designed to pressure the communist government. As a result, the cost of basic goods has gone up, and getting medical care has become harder for residents.
Daily life reflects these hardships. People in Cuba have reportedly stood in bread lines for hours. Others have had to wait a long time to see a doctor for care.
Washington added further pressure last week. New economic sanctions were announced that target the state-run bank in Cuba. The government in Washington stated that this financial institution has ties to Iran.
President Trump discussed the subject at a campaign rally in South Florida on Friday. He made a comment about handling the matter regarding Cuba on the return trip from Iran. He was referring to Navy warships that have been deployed near the Strait of Hormuz.
The President went on to describe a hypothetical scenario involving military vessels near the island. He suggested ships would pass by the coast and stop a short distance from the shore. He then mentioned that Secretary Rubio would be sent in to finish the deal.
Cuba's government has pushed back against this talk. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla said on Friday that Cuba rejects any threats related to U.S. ambitions toward the island. He noted that while the coastline has beautiful beaches, it is also rugged and inhospitable to those who arrive with hostile intentions and a desire for domination.
Source: CBS News
