Cuban Minister Critiques Rubio’s Agenda, Challenges U.S. Policy

Cuba’s Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, has criticized U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, asserting that his “personal” agenda is undermining peace initiatives in Latin America. In an interview with The Associated Press, Rodríguez expressed concern that Rubio’s approach diverges sharply from President Donald Trump’s stated goals for improved relations with Cuba.

Rodríguez outlined that Cuba had viewed Trump’s return to office in January as an opportunity to shift away from a historically antagonistic relationship. However, he claimed that Rubio, whose parents are Cuban immigrants, has intensified a “maximum pressure” campaign against Havana. “The current secretary of state was not born in Cuba, has never been to Cuba, and knows nothing about Cuba,” Rodríguez stated, emphasizing his belief that Rubio’s actions prioritize a “very personal and corrupt agenda” over U.S. national interests.

The State Department did not respond to a request for comment regarding Rodríguez’s remarks. Rubio, in defense of his policies, has characterized Cuba’s leadership as dictatorial, stating in a July statement that, “The U.S. will continue to stand for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the people of Cuba.”

Escalating Tensions and Economic Challenges

Cuba is navigating a complex relationship with the United States, particularly in light of a long-standing economic embargo that has persisted for over six decades. Rodríguez pointed to the severe consequences of these sanctions, which have led to widespread energy blackouts, food shortages, and inflation within the island nation.

Since Trump’s inauguration, the U.S. has reinstated several economic sanctions that had been relaxed during the administrations of former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Notably, Trump re-designated Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism just a day after taking office, reversing Biden’s efforts to lift that designation. Additionally, the U.S. has implemented strict visitor restrictions and revoked legal protections for around 300,000 Cubans against deportation.

Rodríguez attributed these escalations to what he termed a “bipolar” approach within the State Department, distancing any blame from the Trump administration itself. He noted that while Trump claims to advocate for peace, it is Rubio who promotes forceful actions as a standard diplomatic tool.

Potential for Dialogue

As the political landscape shifts, Rodríguez expressed cautious optimism regarding future U.S.-Cuba relations. He highlighted Cuba’s willingness to engage in serious and responsible dialogue with the current U.S. administration, mentioning potential cooperation on bilateral agreements related to counterterrorism and migration.

The foreign minister also addressed the recent military tensions in Latin America, particularly concerning Venezuela. He condemned the U.S. naval presence off the Venezuelan coast and warned that any military intervention could have catastrophic consequences. The Trump administration has maintained that these actions are intended to pressure Cuba into ceasing its support for the Venezuelan government, which the U.S. accuses of relying on Cuban military and intelligence assistance.

In a response to inquiries about Cuba’s potential military support for Venezuela in the event of an invasion, Rodríguez was noncommittal, stating, “We do not know what the future can bring.” Nonetheless, he reiterated Cuba’s solidarity with Venezuela, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and communication in addressing these regional issues.

As U.S. policies continue to evolve under the Trump administration, both nations remain at a crossroads, with the possibility of dialogue presenting a glimmer of hope amidst ongoing tensions.