Rubio Orders CIA to Open Direct Line for Cuban Reformers
The Secretary of State called for a discrete partnership with the intelligence agency while U.S. warships positioned themselves near Havana.
By Hana Gray ·
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio explicitly asked Cubans to contact the Central Intelligence Agency directly if they wish to accelerate political change. He issued the call on X on Friday, describing the move as a necessary step to address long-standing frustrations within the island nation.
Rubio cited the "disappointment of failed promises, corruption, and the privileged lives of only a few" as primary drivers for the appeal. He urged citizens to "seize this opportunity" through what he termed a "discrete partnership with the CIA." The intelligence agency promptly reposted the message and added a Spanish version, along with a video detailing the specific steps for making contact.
The diplomatic push coincides with intensified economic pressure on the communist government. Recent U.S. sanctions target Cuba's state-run bank, which Washington claims has ties to Iran. These measures exacerbate existing shortages, where prices for basic goods have risen sharply and access to medical care has declined. Reports indicate that residents continue to wait hours in lines for bread and doctor appointments.
President Trump reinforced the administration's stance during a campaign rally in South Florida on Friday. He referenced U.S. Navy warships currently deployed near the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the fleet would pass Cuba on its way back from Iran. Trump described a scenario in which a ship would stop approximately 50 yards off the coast. He said Rubio would then proceed to "finish up the deal" with local leaders.
Cuban officials reacted with immediate dismissal of the U.S. rhetoric. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla responded on X, rejecting threats he attributed to American ambitions. He noted that while the coastline features beautiful beaches, it is also "rugged and inhospitable to those who arrive with hostile intentions and a desire for domination." This statement serves as a formal counter to the proposed naval standoff and direct intelligence ties.
Source: CBS News
