Rubio invites frustrated Cubans to work discreetly with CIA
Secretary of State Marco Rubio used a social media post to invite Cubans who are frustrated with their government to work discreetly with the CIA. The message followed President Trump's renewed suggestion that the U.S. might use military force in Cuba. Rubio and Trump have increasingly criticized Cuba's communist government and imposed sanctions and an oil blockade.
Rubio’s Friday X post urged Cubans frustrated by broken promises, corruption and privilege for a few to seek change through a quiet CIA arrangement, calling it an opening. The article notes Washington has sought similar discreet intelligence cooperation in adversarial states, citing a 2023 Telegram effort aimed at Russia.
The post followed Trump’s Fort Myers rally remarks that U.S. ships could pass Cuba after Iran and that Rubio would finish a deal. It also recalls Trump’s March claim that Cuba was “next,” his talk of taking over the country, sanctions, an oil blockade and Rubio calling Cuba a failed state.
The episode could heighten uncertainty for Cubans on the island and in the diaspora, who may weigh the invitation’s risks against any hoped-for change. It may also affect how regional governments and U.S. agencies interpret Washington’s signals, since public rhetoric about military options can shape diplomatic calculations even without action. The practical impact remains uncertain, as the report does not indicate whether the CIA effort is operational or whether Trump will follow through on his threats.