Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has accused U.S. Senator Marco Rubio of advocating for harsher sanctions on Cuba. He described Rubio as a "shadowy figure" within the current administration, alleging that Rubio aligns closely with the Miami mafia and is actively pushing for a tightening of the blockade. "We are ready to overcome this intensification with the talent, intelligence, and relentless effort of the Cuban people," Díaz-Canel stated in an interview set to air on Tuesday on the state-run program Mesa Redonda.
This statement is part of a dialogue with intellectuals Pascual Serrano, Javier Couso, José Manzaneda, and Carlos Penalva. The conversation will be broadcasted as part of the government's communication strategy to bolster its narrative against the increasing sanctions from Washington.
The regime's criticisms of Rubio come after the United States expanded visa restrictions on Cuban officials, citing what it describes as "forced labor" practices in the island's international medical missions. The measure, promoted by the State Department and publicly supported by Marco Rubio, also impacts the immediate family members of those involved in these programs.
Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez condemned the decision, labeling it an "aggression" against the Cuban people and accusing the newly appointed Secretary of State of prioritizing his "personal agenda" over U.S. interests. According to Rodríguez, this marks the seventh hostile action against Cuba in just one month.
Rubio defended the policy, asserting that its aim is to "hold the Cuban regime accountable for oppressing its people" and "exploiting medical professionals under forced labor conditions." This policy is part of a series of measures introduced during the Trump administration, which include re-listing Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, strengthening the embargo, and implementing migration restrictions such as the humanitarian parole program.
Meanwhile, the Cuban government condemns what it describes as an economic and political siege exacerbating the internal crisis, characterized by shortages, inflation, mass emigration, and growing social unrest. However, many international observers argue that the Havana regime continues to use the embargo as an excuse to suppress civil rights and avoid genuine democratic reforms.
Understanding the Impact of U.S. Sanctions on Cuba
What are the main accusations against Marco Rubio by the Cuban government?
The Cuban government accuses Marco Rubio of advocating for stricter U.S. sanctions against Cuba and aligning with the Miami mafia to intensify the economic blockade.
How has the U.S. expanded visa restrictions on Cuban officials?
The U.S. has extended visa restrictions to Cuban officials involved in international medical missions, which the U.S. claims involve forced labor practices. This also affects the officials' immediate family members.
What measures have been taken by the Trump administration regarding Cuba?
Under the Trump administration, measures against Cuba included re-listing the country as a state sponsor of terrorism, enhancing the embargo, and applying migration restrictions, such as the humanitarian parole program.