US Senator Rubio Calls on Cubans to Form 'Discrete Partnership' with CIA

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a notable call to Cubans seeking change in their country. Rubio encouraged Cubans to form a "discrete partnership" with the US' foreign intelligence service, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

In a social media post, Rubio stated that "now is the time" for those looking to "create positive change" in Cuba. This appeal aligns with previous statements from the Trump administration, which has repeatedly aimed to bring about a change in Havana's leadership.

Highlights

• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Cubans to form a "discrete partnership" with the CIA.
• Rubio's social media post highlighted "the disappointment of failed promises, corruption, and the privileged lives of only a few" as an opportunity.
• The Trump administration has consistently stated its goal is to change Cuba's leadership, with former President Donald Trump claiming the country is "ready to fall."
• The CIA has provided tips for Cubans interested in working with the agency.

Details

Rubio's post directly addressed Cubans, stating, "The disappointment of failed promises, corruption, and the privileged lives of only a few; seize this opportunity to create the change you desire through a discrete partnership with the CIA." This statement once again brought to the forefront the Trump administration's objective of overthrowing the current Cuban government.

In January, former President Donald Trump intensified pressure on Cuba by announcing an oil blockade of the island nation, following a US military operation to capture former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. At the time, Trump noted that Cuba had relied on significant amounts of oil and money from Venezuela for many years, declaring, "There will be no more oil or money going to Cuba - zero!" He added that he "strongly suggest[ed] they make a deal, before it is too late."

For Cubans looking to collaborate with the agency, the CIA has shared several tips. These include advising individuals not to use a device or internet connection linked to their identity or place of work, and to remove all software, apps, and programs from the device they are using to contact the agency. The CIA also requests that those wishing to get in touch share their base location, job title, and the "type or level of access you have to information of interest to our organization."

Why it matters

This call signals the US's desire to play a more active and direct role in Cuba's political change efforts. Rubio's explicit invitation to cooperate with the CIA demonstrates the continuation of the Trump administration's tough policies towards Cuba and an intensified effort to support dissident elements. This situation could have significant implications for Cuba's internal dynamics and US-Cuba relations.