Rubio Urges Cuban Reformers to Contact CIA Directly

Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted a direct invitation for Cubans seeking "positive change" to establish a "discrete partnership" with the Central Intelligence Agency on Friday.

The announcement marks a new phase in the Trump administration's strategy to dislodge Havana's communist government. In his message on X, Rubio cited "corruption" and the "privileged lives of only a few" as reasons for citizens to act now. The post included a video with specific steps for contacting the agency. The CIA quickly reposted the appeal, including a Spanish translation.

Cubans face mounting economic strain under the U.S. embargo. Prices for basic goods have risen, and medical access has narrowed. Reports describe long lines for bread and doctor appointments. Last week, Washington added pressure by sanctioning Cuba's state-run bank. Officials said the institution had ties to Iran.

President Trump reinforced the message at a campaign rally in South Florida on Friday. He linked the diplomatic push to military assets deployed near the Strait of Hormuz. "We'll take care of Cuba on our way back from Iran," Trump said. He described a plan for a U.S. Navy warship to stop 50 yards off the Cuban coast. "They'll raise up their hands, and then we're going to send Marco Rubio in to finish up the deal," he told the crowd.

Havana rejected the approach. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla responded on X on Friday. He stated, "We reject any threats stemming from U.S. ambitions toward Cuba." He added that the island's coastline is "rugged and inhospitable to those who arrive with hostile intentions and a desire for domination."

The administration plans to coordinate its naval and diplomatic efforts as the warships continue their route. Rubio's office will maintain the direct line for potential contacts established through the new CIA channel.