The recent decision by Donald Trump's administration to withdraw support for Volodymyr Zelensky and align with Vladimir Putin's justification for the invasion of Ukraine is sparking significant debate among Cubans, both on the island and abroad. This contentious issue has especially heated up on social media, where activists and citizens express emotions ranging from outrage to endorsement over the unexpected shift in U.S. foreign policy and national security doctrine.
Cuban activist Félix Llerena joined the chorus of criticism aimed at Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reminding him of his historic speeches defending Ukraine and previously labeling Russia as a global threat. "How many times did you tell us, @SecRubio, that Ukraine needed to be defended from Putin? Today, I felt like you in the Oval Office. Do a favor to the Rubio we know and admire: resign," Llerena posted on X.
In addition to Llerena, Cuban-Irish journalist Annarella O'Mahony described the meeting between Trump and Zelensky as a "mafia setup," highlighting the arrogance displayed by the Republican administration. Her social media post was a response to a tweet from Spanish journalist and politician Hermann Tertsch, a Vox party member who defended Trump's stance. O'Mahony found Tertsch's position contradictory given his criticism of Cuba's dictatorship, an ally of Putin. “There was no attack: it was a mafia setup, arrogance, and ignorance by the President and Vice President of the U.S. Be wary of alliances with Trump, which could tarnish your reputation. He admires and supports Putin, and Putin backs Cuba's regime and other totalitarian governments,” she told the European Parliament member known for his passionate denunciation of the Cuban regime in Brussels.
Meanwhile, activist and journalist Iliana Hernández also stirred controversy by criticizing Trump's position, labeling him on social media as "Putin's lapdog" due to his apparent subservience to Kremlin interests. Her stance triggered a wave of comments, with some users lamenting the U.S.'s withdrawal from Ukraine and others justifying the decision by arguing that Washington should not continue financing a war that "is not theirs to fight."
Concerns Among Cuban Activists After Unprecedented White House Dispute
Recent events have marked a notable shift in Trump's foreign policy. The tense White House meeting between President Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and Zelensky ended without any concrete agreements, deepening concerns about the future of U.S. support for Ukraine. During the encounter, Trump avoided labeling Putin a "dictator" and reiterated his intention to renegotiate the terms of any military assistance to Kyiv.
This occurs as the White House signals a "new foreign policy doctrine" emphasizing an isolationist approach, raising doubts about the U.S.'s commitment to European security. In this context, Rubio, who once fiercely condemned Russian aggression, has softened his rhetoric, drawing criticism for his apparent change in stance under the new Trump administration.
Other factors influencing Trump's decision include his views on the U.N. and his recent vote against a resolution condemning the Russian invasion. Additionally, reports suggest the Republican is exploring mining deals with Ukraine, possibly explaining part of his "aggressive" diplomatic strategy.
Recently, Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer warned about the implications of this shift in U.S. foreign policy, noting that weakening support for Ukraine indirectly strengthens totalitarian regimes like Cuba's. Ferrer urged the international community to unite against Putin and his allies, emphasizing that any concessions to Moscow only benefit dictatorships that oppress their populations. His stance resonated with sectors of the Cuban diaspora who are concerned about the lack of clear leadership in defending global democracy.
This debate highlights the growing polarization within the Cuban community regarding U.S. international policy and underscores the discomfort many feel seeing figures like Marco Rubio align with a narrative they previously repudiated. Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine continues, now without financial backing from Washington, in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape.
Questions About U.S. Policy on Ukraine and Cuba
What is the current U.S. stance on Ukraine?
The Trump administration has shifted its policy, withdrawing support for Ukraine and aligning with Russia's justification for its invasion.
Why are Cuban activists concerned about the U.S. policy shift?
Cuban activists fear that reducing support for Ukraine may empower regimes like Cuba's, which are allied with Russia.
How has Marco Rubio's position on Russia changed?
Marco Rubio, who previously condemned Russian aggression, has recently softened his rhetoric, aligning with Trump's administration.