US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled Cuba a "national security threat" to the United States, suggesting the prospects for a peaceful resolution are "not high." His comments follow the US charging Cuba's former president, Raúl Castro, with murder related to the 1996 downing of two planes that killed US citizens.
Rubio told reporters Washington's preference remained a "diplomatic solution" but emphasized President Donald Trump's right and obligation to protect the country from threats. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno RodrÃguez, however, dismissed Rubio's claims as "lies," asserting the island has never threatened the US.
US Accusations and Cuban Denials
Rubio also accused Cuba of being "one of the leading sponsors of terrorism in the entire region."
RodrÃguez vehemently denied this on X, criticizing Rubio for allegedly trying to "instigate a military aggression" and accusing the US government of "ruthlessly and systematically" attacking his nation. Cuba currently faces a fuel crisis, exacerbated by an effective US oil blockade, leading to extended blackouts and food shortages for its citizens.
The US recently offered $100 million in humanitarian aid, which Cuba accepted, Rubio confirmed. Trump has consistently sought to pressure Cuba and has openly discussed toppling its communist regime. The indictment against Castro draws parallels to Trump's actions against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January. Asked about bringing Castro to the US, Rubio offered no specifics, stating, "why would I say to the media what our plans are about that?" Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, who announced the charges, said the US expects Castro to appear "by his own will or another way."
Recent Arrests and Trump's Stance
Rubio told reporters Washington's preference remained a "diplomatic solution" but emphasized President Donald Trump's right and obligation to protect the country from threats.
Separately, Rubio announced the arrest of Adys Lastres Morera, sister to a high-ranking official in a Cuban military conglomerate, in Florida. Morera, allegedly aiding Havana's communist regime, was arrested by immigration enforcement and awaits deportation. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump called Cuba a "failed country" and indicated his administration was trying to help it "on a humanitarian basis." Cuban-Americans, he noted, "want to go back to their country" and contribute to its success.
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