Former Cuban Spy Speaks Out Amid Controversy with Carlos Lazo and Donation Restrictions

Fernando González Llort, a former Cuban spy and now the president of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP), has broken his silence concerning the allegations made by Carlos Lazo, the leader of the "Bridges of Love" initiative. In his recent statement, González Llort affirmed that all donations sent by Lazo's organization have been delivered "in full and in the shortest possible time" to the intended institutions, without any changes to the designated recipients.

He emphasized that "Bridges of Love" has received photographic evidence confirming the delivery of their donations to the respective institutions. González Llort also pointed out that the Cuban Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) enforces regulations regarding access to its facilities, prioritizing patient care. He clarified that these guidelines are not meant to block donations but to streamline the process. The ICAP, in collaboration with entities like MINSAP, is tasked with ensuring compliance with these established rules, which are designed to efficiently manage the donation process.

Carlos Lazo, an activist known for advocating the end of the U.S. embargo on Cuba and his humanitarian efforts for the island, recently accused the Cuban government of imposing restrictions that complicate the direct delivery of medical supplies and food to pediatric hospitals. According to Lazo, these measures result in donations being held at the airport and bar access to medical centers, hindering his humanitarian mission and highlighting an "internal blockade" by the Cuban government.

This controversy has resonated deeply within Cuban public opinion, prompting responses from pro-regime artists and state entities. Israel Rojas, the frontman of the group Buena Fe and a well-known supporter of the Cuban regime, described the criticisms against those who claimed Lazo was lying about these challenges as "profoundly unjust." He remarked on the shifting attitude towards activists like Lazo, noting a transition "from admiration to avoidance," and most recently, to "obstruction" of his work. Rojas underscored that initiatives like "Bridges of Love" represent a positive connection between the nation and its diaspora.

In contrast, Lazo chose to end the controversy with the Cuban government. In a social media post, he stressed the importance of unity in facing upcoming challenges, stating that "tough times are ahead" and neighbors must "embrace" to confront hardships together. This declaration coincided with an official statement from MINSAP, which denied obstructing the direct delivery of donations to its facilities. MINSAP explained that those wishing to make direct deliveries should notify in advance to ensure an orderly handover that does not disrupt the healthcare facilities' operations.

Martí Noticias journalist, Mario J. Pentón, weighed in on the controversy, describing it as "a poorly staged drama" and an attempt to "whitewash a dictatorship." In his analysis, Pentón stated: "What a charade, this poorly staged drama between the regime and its protégé in the U.S. Friendlies won't legitimize someone who's merely trying to whitewash a dictatorship. This is nothing more than a publicity stunt."

Pentón's remarks echo the sentiment of critics of the Cuban regime, who perceive this conflict as more of a distraction tactic than a genuine confrontation between Lazo and the island's authorities.