The shutdown of Radio and Television Martí, initiated by President Donald Trump's administration, has sparked a variety of reactions both in the United States and Cuba. On the island, state-affiliated figures have openly expressed their delight at the cessation of these stations, long considered tools of propaganda against the Cuban government.
Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, the national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) and a former Cuban intelligence agent, voiced his thoughts on social media. His post included a lighthearted jab at the closure of the stations and mentioned U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, known for his critical stance toward the Cuban regime and his support for Radio and TV Martí. "Ahhh... Now I understand the 'Tick tock, tick tock...' some haters wrote in the comments... It was that with Marco Rubio, Radio and TV Liar had their days numbered!" Hernández Nordelo said mockingly.
The decision to close Radio and TV Martí is part of a series of measures implemented by the Trump administration to cut costs and restructure federal agencies. Under the leadership of Elon Musk, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) recommended terminating the lease for the Jorge Mas Canosa building, the headquarters of these stations in Miami, as part of efforts to save $5.32 million.
The U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees Radio and TV Martí, has faced accusations of espionage, terrorist infiltration, and corruption. These allegations have led to a significant restructuring of its operations. Kari Lake, a senior advisor at USAGM appointed by Trump, has reported massive national security violations within the agency, contributing to the station's operational halt and leaving its future in doubt.
Meanwhile, in the United States, politicians and organizations have voiced concerns over the closure of Radio and TV Martí. The Cuban American National Foundation (CANF) has urged President Trump to reinstate the necessary funding to keep these platforms running, emphasizing their role in providing uncensored information to the Cuban people.
Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar also opposed the shutdown, highlighting Radio Martí's crucial role in countering the Cuban regime's propaganda. Similarly, opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer described the station as vital in the struggle for freedom and democracy in Cuba, urging the U.S. administration to reconsider the decision.
The final shutdown of Radio Martí's transmitters in the Florida Keys marked the end of an era where, for nearly four decades, these stations served as an alternative information source, breaking the Cuban government's media monopoly. Ironically, in Havana, the decision by Trump was celebrated as if they had won the lottery. After years of condemning the "manipulation" by independent Cuban media, the regime is now rejoicing over their disappearance without having to ask for it, hoping the same magic will apply to the "embargo."
Hernández Nordelo Continues to Stir Controversy
Recently, Hernández Nordelo has been at the heart of several controversies, provoking widespread reactions within Cuban civil society.
During a recent episode of the official podcast 'From the Presidency'—which couldn't be viewed due to a general blackout—Hernández Nordelo claimed that "the story that Cubans leave Cuba seeking freedom isn't even believed by Marco Rubio." His remarks attempted to downplay the painful political reasons and quest for liberty that drive many Cubans to emigrate, sparking outrage among citizens who have experienced the country's crisis and decided to leave the island.
Following his comments on emigration, numerous Cubans voiced their discontent on social media, recalling the hardships and risks they face when leaving the country. The responses highlighted the pain of separated families and the human losses during dangerous journeys, underscoring the disagreement with Hernández Nordelo's stance.
Amid the general blackout, Hernández Nordelo shared a video of himself playing with his family to cope with the electricity outage. Many perceived this as an attempt to "romanticize" the energy crisis, portraying it in a more pleasant light, which drew criticism for trivializing the population's struggles.
These recent actions and statements have placed Hernández Nordelo at the center of public debate, highlighting the perceived disconnect between some leaders and the everyday realities of Cuban citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Radio Martí's Closure
Why was Radio Martí shut down?
Radio Martí was closed as part of a series of cost-cutting and restructuring measures implemented by the Trump administration. The decision aimed to save resources and was influenced by allegations of espionage and corruption within the overseeing agency.
What was the role of Radio Martí in Cuba?
For nearly four decades, Radio Martí served as an alternative source of information for Cubans, challenging the government's media monopoly and providing uncensored news.
Who is Gerardo Hernández Nordelo?
Gerardo Hernández Nordelo is the national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) and a former Cuban intelligence agent. He is known for his controversial statements and strong support of the Cuban regime.