Amid heavy criticism over alleged expansion of Chinese-linked electronic espionage bases in Cuba, ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel chose to make light of the accusations. The leader used a meme, reportedly purchasing a digital image from the site "Deposit Photos" showing a baseball field and claiming that these were the "Chinese bases installed in Cuba."
The previous day, a new report highlighted the growth of Chinese electronic espionage stations in Cuba, including new construction about 70 miles from the U.S. Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay. This study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a Washington-based think tank, followed a Wall Street Journal report from last year that pointed to negotiations between China and Cuba to strengthen defense and intelligence ties, including a new joint military training and espionage facility on the island.
Satellite images and open-source information evaluated by the CSIS provided an unprecedented view of four active sites in Cuba capable of conducting electronic surveillance operations: Bejucal, Calabazar, El Wajay, and El Salao, the latter located in Santiago de Cuba.
Since the initial allegations, both Cuban and Chinese regimes have denied the existence of these installations. Following the publication of the CSIS study, China dismissed the accusations as "fabrications" on Wednesday, denying the operation of spy bases in the Caribbean island.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning emphasized at a press conference the "brotherly relationship between China and Cuba," describing it as a "model of mutual aid among developing nations." She also added that the CSIS accusations "lack foundation."
Many Cubans reacted angrily to Díaz-Canel's joke on his social media platform X page. Some recalled similar jokes made by Fidel Castro during the Cuban Missile Crisis, which eventually proved the U.S. was right about the presence of Russian missiles. "Keep joking, the truth will come out in the end! As if you wouldn't let China, Russia, or anyone who pays you well set up bases in Cuba. You are the prostitutes of the Caribbean," responded a profile named "Cazador de Ignorantes 2" to Díaz-Canel.
Another user, "Liborio en Cuba," commented, "There's no money to buy milk for children or to fix buildings, but there's money to buy an image and make a meme."
On Tuesday, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez urged President Joe Biden's administration to "take action against Communist China and Castro's Cuba," after alleging that the Asian country supposedly operates spy bases on the island.
Understanding the Alleged Chinese Spy Bases in Cuba
In light of the recent reports and denials surrounding Chinese espionage bases in Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions to provide clarity on the issue.
What are the alleged Chinese espionage bases in Cuba?
The alleged Chinese espionage bases in Cuba are electronic surveillance stations reportedly established with the assistance of China. The sites identified include Bejucal, Calabazar, El Wajay, and El Salao.
Who reported the existence of these bases?
The existence of these bases was reported by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and was previously hinted at in a Wall Street Journal report from last year.
How has Cuba and China responded to these allegations?
Both Cuba and China have denied the existence of these espionage bases. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning labeled the accusations as "fabrications" and emphasized the strong mutual aid relationship between China and Cuba.