Mike Hammer, the newly appointed Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, recently held a meeting with Berta Soler and Martha Beatriz Roque, two leading figures in the Cuban opposition. "In recognition of #HumanRightsDay, it was an honor to meet with Berta Soler, of the Ladies in White, and Martha Beatriz, awarded the #WomenOfCourage 2024 prize. The United States calls for increased respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Cuba," the diplomatic mission in Havana expressed on X.
However, Soler clarified via her social media that the meeting did not occur recently but took place shortly after Hammer's arrival in Cuba. Soler emphasized that the American diplomat was receptive and attentively listened to the concerns presented by the dissidents. The topics addressed included:
The release of Cuban political prisoners.
The repression against opposition groups.
The overall situation in Cuba.
The reopening of the office for political refugees on the island.
The importance of conditioning U.S. relations with the Cuban regime on human rights progress.
She also expressed gratitude for the logistical support provided by the U.S. Embassy, which facilitated her transportation to the meeting, noting that her attendance would not have been possible without their assistance.
Hammer, with an impressive 35-year career in diplomatic service, has engaged with various sectors of civil society in Cuba since his arrival in Havana. Last November, during an event at the residence of the Spanish ambassador in Cuba, Javier Francisco Hergueta Garnica, the U.S. envoy met with prominent Cuban artists and personalities such as the troubadour Polito Ibáñez and the Los Carpinteros group, as well as notable Cuban visual artists, according to the diplomatic mission.
He has also held meetings with religious leaders and representatives of the Jewish Community on the Island. With the former, Hammer expressed feeling "encouraged" by hearing them "speak about the good work that churches do in providing essential items and support to the Cuban people, despite the challenges they face. Religious freedom is a fundamental right."
Additionally, he mentioned meeting Auxiliary Bishop Monsignor Eloy Domínguez, discussing the daily challenges faced by Cubans and the work of the Catholic Church in Cuba.
Hammer replaced Benjamin G. Ziff upon his arrival in Havana. It remains to be seen whether the U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will support him in this role or make other decisions regarding the diplomatic representation on the Island.
Key Aspects of U.S.-Cuban Diplomatic Relations
What were the main topics discussed in Mike Hammer's meeting with Cuban dissidents?
The discussion focused on the release of Cuban political prisoners, repression against opposition, the general situation in Cuba, reopening the office for political refugees, and linking U.S.-Cuba relations to human rights advancements.
Who has Mike Hammer met with in Cuba besides the dissidents?
Hammer has also engaged with prominent artists, religious leaders, and representatives of the Jewish community, indicating his broad outreach efforts within Cuban civil society.
What is the significance of Mike Hammer's role in Cuba?
As the Chief of Mission, Hammer plays a crucial role in shaping the U.S. diplomatic approach towards Cuba, advocating for human rights and engaging with various societal sectors to foster dialogue and understanding.