Rubio tells Cubans one step separates them from direct CIA partnership
The State Department released a Spanish-language video guide outlining specific procedures for Cuban reformers to establish secure lines of communication with U.S. intelligence officials.
By Sakura Novak ·
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio directed Cubans seeking political reform to establish direct, discrete partnerships with the Central Intelligence Agency on Friday. The instruction appeared in a post on X where Rubio stated that the current moment is the time to create change. He cited the frustration of broken promises, widespread corruption, and the privileged lifestyles of a small elite as the driving forces for this new approach.
The CIA immediately reposted the message and published a Spanish-language appeal. The agency included a video that detailed the specific steps required for individuals to contact the intelligence service. This direct channel bypasses traditional diplomatic routes and places the agency in front of domestic opposition figures.
This diplomatic shift coincides with intensifying economic pressure on the island. The U.S. government announced additional sanctions last week targeting Cuba's state-run bank. Washington stated the institution maintains financial ties to Iran. On the ground, the cost of living has risen sharply. Basic goods have become more expensive, and access to medical care has contracted. Reports indicate that citizens now wait for hours to purchase bread or secure a doctor's appointment.
President Trump addressed the Cuba situation during a campaign rally in South Florida on Friday. He linked the U.S. military presence in the region to the Cuban standoff. Trump noted that U.S. Navy warships are currently deployed near the Strait of Hormuz. He predicted those vessels would travel past Cuba on their return journey from the Middle East.
The president described a specific tactical scenario for the coming weeks. He said one of the warships would stop approximately 50 yards from the coast. He described the crew raising their hands in a gesture before sending Rubio to negotiate a final agreement with the Cuban leadership.
Cuban officials rejected the American rhetoric on the same day. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla responded to the posts on X. He stated that the island rejects any threats arising from U.S. ambitions. He characterized the coastline as rugged and inhospitable to those arriving with hostile intentions.
The State Department continues to promote the direct partnership model. The CIA video guide remains posted online. The new sanctions on the state bank remain in effect. The U.S. Navy ships remain deployed in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
