Post by : Shweta
Havana Responds to Rubio’s Public Appeal
Cuba criticised the United States on Friday, October 23, 2026, after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Cubans seeking political change to establish discreet contact with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio described the appeal as a sign of what he called US desperation. His comments were published on social media as tensions between Washington and Havana continued to rise.
Rubio Calls for Political Change in Cuba
Rubio urged Cubans dissatisfied with their government to take what he described as an opportunity to create positive change. In his social media message, he referred to failed promises, corruption and the privileges enjoyed by a small section of society. He encouraged those seeking change to pursue a discreet partnership with the CIA.
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CIA Publishes Guidance for Sharing Information
Following Rubio’s message, the CIA published a Spanish-language video on social media explaining how people could submit information to the agency. The guidance advised potential sources to visit an official US facility in person if it was safe to do so. For online contact, it recommended using a secure internet connection, a private browser and a disposable email account. The public appeal marked a visible development in the growing political confrontation between the two governments.
Trump Renews Remarks About Possible Military Action
The appeal came hours after US President Donald Trump raised the possibility of military intervention in Cuba during a rally in Florida. Trump spoke about US warships potentially passing near the Cuban coast and suggested that Rubio could be sent to complete a deal. His remarks renewed concerns about Washington’s intentions, although the report did not announce any confirmed military operation or deployment plan targeting Cuba.
Cuban Foreign Minister Warns Against Hostile Intentions
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez rejected Trump’s remarks and warned against attempts to approach the island with hostile intentions. In a social media post, he described Cuba’s coastline as beautiful but potentially dangerous for those arriving with plans to dominate the country. The exchange highlighted the sharply contrasting positions of the two governments over Cuba’s political future and US pressure.
Sanctions and Legal Cases Add to Bilateral Tensions
Washington has increased economic and political pressure on Havana through additional sanctions and restrictions on fuel supplies. The report describes a de facto energy blockade introduced in January, alongside potential penalties for countries supplying fuel to Cuba. Tensions have also risen over legal proceedings involving former Cuban President Raul Castro, including a Florida arrest warrant connected to the 1996 shooting down of two civilian aircraft operated by Brothers to the Rescue. Cuba has rejected the related US federal case as legally unfounded.
Cuba’s Economic Crisis and Stalled Relations
Cuba continues to face a prolonged economic and energy crisis, with power cuts, shortages, inflation and emigration adding to public hardship. Although the two countries have held talks in recent months, Washington has expressed dissatisfaction with the progress. The US embargo, which has been in place for decades, remains a major source of disagreement. The latest exchange of statements adds to uncertainty over whether diplomatic engagement can ease tensions or whether pressure between the two governments will intensify further.
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